FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Florida Sheriffs Association Announces Full Statewide Participation in ICE’s 287(g) Program
Winter Haven, Fla. (February 24, 2025) – The Florida Sheriffs Association (FSA) proudly announces that all county jails across the state have signed agreements with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to ensure compliance with the 287(g) program. This milestone highlights Florida’s commitment to public safety and the enforcement of immigration laws, equipping local law enforcement with the tools necessary to address illegal immigration at the community level.
As part of this initiative, every county is working with ICE to assign deputized sheriffs’ deputies and correctional officers in all 67 county jails. This process includes comprehensive background screenings and specialized training, allowing these officers to begin serving warrants and assisting in immigration enforcement efforts.
In addition, the newly established State Immigration Enforcement Council, formed last week, includes four sheriffs who will coordinate with the State Board of Immigration Enforcement to provide strategic support and guidance for local agencies. This Council will work closely with ICE on training, participation in the 287(g) program, and recommendations for expanding detention capacity to house individuals awaiting deportation.
The Council includes:
• FSA President and Charlotte County Sheriff Bill Prummell
• Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters
• Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri
• Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd
Statements from the State Immigration Enforcement Council Sheriffs:
FSA President and Charlotte County Sheriff Bill Prummell:
“Throughout my career, I’ve seen firsthand how collaboration among law enforcement strengthens public safety. I’m proud to stand alongside my fellow sheriffs in ensuring that every county jail in Florida is aligned with ICE under the 287(g) program. As a member of the State Immigration Enforcement Council, I’m committed to working with my colleagues to uphold Florida’s immigration laws and protect our communities.”
Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters:
“Illegal immigration has far-reaching consequences, including an alarming increase in dangerous drugs entering our state. In 2024, Jacksonville officers seized over 20 kilograms of fentanyl—enough to impact nearly 10 million people—and responded to more than 1,600 fentanyl-related deaths in the past four years. We remain dedicated to partnering with President Trump’s administration and federal agencies to secure our borders, protect Floridians, and set an example for the rest of the country.”
Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri:
“By training both new and experienced deputies and correctional officers to enforce federal immigration laws and expanding detention capacity, we’re strengthening public safety across Florida. Under President Trump’s leadership, ICE has renewed its commitment to enforcement, and we’re prepared to assist. Having law enforcement at the table ensures that critical policies—such as Senate Bill 2C—are implemented effectively, and Florida is leading the way.”
Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd:
“The State Immigration Enforcement Council will unify local law enforcement efforts and enhance collaboration with federal partners in addressing illegal immigration. By combining our voices and resources, Florida continues to lead from the front in protecting our communities and prioritizing public safety.”
On February 13, 2025, Governor Ron DeSantis signed Senate Bill 2C into law, providing additional resources to support local agencies in arresting, detaining, and initiating deportation proceedings for criminal illegal aliens. Through the work of the State Immigration Enforcement Council, Florida law enforcement is fully prepared to utilize these tools to strengthen public safety, reinforce border security, and uphold Florida’s commitment to the rule of law.
About the Florida Sheriffs Association
The Florida Sheriffs Association (FSA) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization representing Florida’s sheriffs, approximately 3,000 business leaders, and 100,000 citizens statewide. Established in 1893, FSA advocates for public safety policies, provides training and resources to law enforcement agencies, and supports initiatives to prevent juvenile delinquency through programs like the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches. Today, it stands as one of the nation’s largest and most impactful state law enforcement associations.
For more information, visit www.flsheriffs.org.