Local Police Join ICE Deportation Force in Record Numbers Despite Warnings Program Lacks Oversight

Published: Monday, June 9, 2025 at 9:00 am

**ICE Expands Local Law Enforcement Partnerships for Immigration Enforcement**

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency is significantly expanding its 287(g) Program, which deputizes local police to act as deportation agents. Since the start of the current administration's second term, ICE has initiated 514 new agreements with local law enforcement agencies across 40 states. This marks a substantial increase in partnerships, with a total of 649 agreements in place as of June 6, compared to 135 in January.

The program, named after the section of law that allows the delegation of limited powers to local officers, aims to accelerate deportations and counter sanctuary policies. The expansion includes a revival of the task force model, empowering local officers to question individuals about their immigration status during routine policing activities.

While ICE officials tout the program as a force multiplier, civil liberties experts and immigrant advocates express concerns. They warn that the rapid expansion may lead to inadequate training and supervision of local officers, potentially resulting in racial profiling and damage to community trust. Critics also point to past instances of constitutional violations and discriminatory policing under similar agreements.

The expansion is particularly strong in the Southeast, with states like Florida mandating cooperation with ICE. However, the program has yet to take hold in major cities and counties with large immigrant populations. The program has faced criticism and legal challenges in the past, with some jurisdictions experiencing accusations of racial profiling.

BNN's Perspective: While the stated goal of removing dangerous criminals from communities is understandable, the rapid expansion of the 287(g) program raises serious concerns. The potential for racial profiling and erosion of community trust in law enforcement must be carefully considered. A balanced approach is needed, ensuring adequate oversight and training to prevent abuses while addressing legitimate public safety concerns.

Keywords: ICE, 287(g) Program, immigration enforcement, local law enforcement, deportation, racial profiling, sanctuary policies, community trust, task force model, Florida, Tennessee.

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