Florida tourist hotspot nearly becomes sanctuary city before leaders reverse ICE policy

Published: Thursday, July 10, 2025 at 8:00 am

Key West Reverses Course on ICE Cooperation After State Pressure

Key West city commissioners have reversed their decision to end cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), reinstating a program that allows local law enforcement to work with federal immigration agents. The initial vote to end the 287(g) agreement, which would have allowed cooperation between federal agents and local law enforcement, was met with public backlash and pressure from state leaders.

The reversal came after the DeSantis administration threatened consequences, including potential civil and criminal penalties, for the city's initial decision. Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier accused the commissioners of creating a sanctuary city, an illegal practice within Florida, and demanded they reverse course.

Commissioner Lissette Carey, who initially voted against ending the agreement, supported the reinstatement, citing the need to follow state and federal law. She expressed shock at being the sole vote against the initial decision. The vote to reinstate the agreement passed 4-2, with some attendees protesting the decision.

The city's police chief had initially signed the agreement, leading to confusion over its validity. The city manager was supposed to sign the agreement, but authorized the police chief to do so.

The reinstated agreement has drawn praise from state officials, who view it as a necessary step to uphold immigration laws. The vote comes as the City of South Miami is currently suing the DeSantis administration over a state law requiring local governments to cooperate with ICE. Key West's commission voted against joining South Miami in its lawsuit.

Commissioner Carey believes the reinstated agreement is positive for her constituents, including legal immigrants.

BNN's Perspective:

This situation highlights the ongoing tension between local autonomy and state-level immigration enforcement policies. While the state's stance emphasizes the importance of cooperation with federal immigration authorities, the local community's initial decision suggests a desire for a different approach. The reversal underscores the significant influence state leaders can exert on local governance, particularly on politically sensitive issues like immigration.

Keywords: Key West, ICE, immigration, 287(g), Florida, DeSantis, sanctuary city, law enforcement, Uthmeier, cooperation, commission, vote, reversal, agreement, legal immigration

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