Wyoming Plans Collaboration with ICE on Immigration Issues
State officials in Wyoming are moving forward with plans to collaborate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to tackle the persistent issue of illegal immigration.
Recently, Governor Mark Gordon announced that the Wyoming Highway Patrol has finalized an agreement to join the ICE 287(g) Program. This program enables local agencies to enforce specific elements of U.S. immigration law.
“Public safety contributions are crucial, and we’re making use of the limited resources offered by ICE in Wyoming,” he stated.
With ICE oversight, officers of the Wyoming Highway Patrol are authorized to act as designated immigration officers.
The governor described this new contract as a “further step” in Wyoming’s dedication to border security. He expressed, “The safety of our nation depends on effective immigration enforcement, and we are proud to have the Wyoming Highway Patrol contributing to this endeavor through our formal agreement with ICE.”
Robert Guadian, the ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Director for the Denver Field Office, praised the program as significantly boosting the capabilities of ICE officers in Wyoming.
Guadian commended the governor for collaborating on initiatives that ensure the safety of the Wyoming community.
The ICE website indicates that the Wyoming Highway Patrol has opted to engage in the program’s task force model. “The actions of ICE supervisors will guide the next steps. Officers are also granted limited immigration authority while participating in these task forces,” it noted.
Governor Gordon mentioned that the Wyoming Highway Patrol is preparing to implement this model, allowing local leaders to receive complimentary training from ICE and access to its database.
WHP administrator Colonel Tim Cameron remarked that troopers are uniquely positioned to assist with immigration enforcement while operating along interstate highways, which can be misused for illegal activities. He added, “This partnership will enhance public safety, expand access to federal resources, and strengthen our ties with local law enforcement.”
Cameron referenced to a news outlet that the limited initial deployment of this initiative will involve training one or two officers from several counties, including Laramie and Sweetwater.
“This isn’t about authorizing all troopers to conduct all functions related to immigration. We’re granting very specific and limited powers under ICE’s direction,” he explained. “Leveraging the limited resources of ICE in Wyoming is essential for public safety.”
