ICE partnerships with local law enforcement triple as Trump continues deportation crackdown

As President Trump pursues what he calls “the largest mass deportation in history,” U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has significantly expanded the 287(g) program, which allows local law enforcement to enforce immigration laws. By April 17, 2024, there were 456 active agreements, a threefold increase since December 2024, with many local agencies in Florida participating due to a state law mandating compliance. The program has faced criticism for potential racial profiling, with some jurisdictions enacting sanctuary laws to limit local immigration enforcement, though county sheriff’s offices can bypass these restrictions.