UPDATE: Galveston County law enforcement agencies have just announced a significant partnership with ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) under the 287(g) program, allowing local officers to enforce immigration laws. This urgent move raises critical questions about the implications for undocumented residents in the area.
The Galveston County Sheriff’s Office, along with Constable Precincts 1, 2, and 4, and League City Police, are actively participating in this initiative. Under the 287(g) program, local law enforcement can investigate immigration status, enabling them to act swiftly without waiting for federal agents. This comes as local officials aim to enhance immigration enforcement efficiency.
According to Galveston County Sheriff Jimmy Fullen, a total of 28 deputies have completed a rigorous 40-hour training course, with another 30 deputies currently in training. These officers have the authority to identify individuals in the country unlawfully, even if they are not facing criminal charges.
“We can proceed with an investigation into immigration status using the 287(g) authority,” stated Constable Justin West. This program is expected to expedite processes that typically require federal involvement, allowing local authorities to act decisively on the ground.
Data from the Galveston County Sheriff’s Office reveals that law enforcement has transferred 648 individuals to ICE custody this year alone, in addition to 653 individuals already held on ICE detainers in local jails. The local law enforcement’s capability to process these cases highlights a notable shift in how immigration enforcement is handled in the county.
The partnership comprises three models: Jail Enforcement, Task Force, and Warrant Service Officer programs. The Galveston County jail had already been involved in the 287(g) program, focusing on identifying inmates who may be undocumented.
Local leaders emphasize that the focus of this program is on serious offenders.
“They’re going after people who really need to be behind bars, they’re not going after the guy working in the back of the kitchen somewhere,”
said Galveston County Judge Mark Henry.
Additionally, some officials have pointed out that this initiative aligns with past operations, including Operation Lone Star, which involved working along the Texas-Mexico border. “This is a further extension of Operation Lone Star and the things that we were doing down on the southern border assisting (Border Patrol),” noted Constable Blake Patton.
Despite the aggressive approach, officials clarify that participation in the program will not replace regular duties.
“We’re not going into workplaces, we are not going to places of worship, schools, trying to yank people out that we think are illegal,”
emphasized Sheriff Fullen. However, he added that if officers encounter undocumented individuals, they will process them accordingly.
As the 287(g) program expands, it is important to note that not all locations are participating. The City of Galveston, La Marque, and Galveston County Precinct 3 Constable’s Office have opted out. Constable Derrick Rose stated, “Being in the country is a civil issue, and not criminal. If there is a criminal complaint, we will enforce the law.”
In a related note, the Department of Homeland Security announced that ICE will fully reimburse participating agencies for the salaries and benefits of trained 287(g) officers. With 958 agreements currently in effect across the nation, this program represents a significant shift in local immigration enforcement strategies.
As Galveston County takes these decisive steps, residents are left wondering about the immediate implications for their communities. The situation remains fluid, and updates are expected as the program unfolds. Readers are encouraged to stay informed and share this urgent news as developments continue.
