Sarasota and Manatee Deputies Undergo ICE Training for Expanded Immigration Enforcement

Sheriff's deputies in Sarasota and Manatee counties are participating in a new federal training initiative that expands their authority to enforce immigration laws beyond jail settings. This development is part of Florida's broader adoption of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) 287(g) Task Force Model, which grants local law enforcement the ability to conduct street-level immigration enforcement activities.

Previously, both counties operated under the more limited Warrant Service Officer model, focusing on administrative tasks within jails. The transition to the Task Force Model allows deputies to question individuals about their immigration status during routine patrols and to initiate immigration charges, subject to review by ICE. This shift is facilitated by a statewide agreement signed in February 2025, making Florida the only state where all 67 counties participate in the 287(g) program.

The training program, led by ICE, covers immigration law, civil rights protections, use-of-force protocols, and community engagement strategies. While the training duration has been reduced to expedite implementation, concerns have been raised about the potential impact on community trust and the risk of racial profiling. Advocates emphasize the need for transparency and oversight to ensure that civil liberties are upheld as local law enforcement assumes expanded responsibilities in immigration enforcement.

Florida has allocated $250 million to support the implementation of the 287(g) program across the state. As Sarasota and Manatee counties proceed with the expanded enforcement model, community leaders and residents are closely monitoring the effects on public safety and community relations.

For more information on the 287(g) program and its implementation in Florida, visit the official ICE website.