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The authorities of Fort Myers in Florida have agreed to collaborate with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in the detentions and deportations of immigrants, joining other cities, such as Hialeah, where police officers contribute to reinforcing the crackdown on illegal immigration.
The agreement emerged during a meeting held this Friday in which municipal authorities unanimously agreed to approve a memorandum allowing local officers to receive training from ICE and collaborate on deportations.
According to a report by the AP agency, although most speakers expressed their disagreement with the measure due to concerns about an increase in racial profiling, they ultimately chose to contribute to the detention of immigrants "who do not have legal status." and the questioning of any person "believed to be an immigrant."
The cited outlet reports that, on the eve of the vote, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis warned that failing to approve an immigration agreement could have serious consequences, including suspension from office.
At the beginning of the week, the Attorney General of the State, James Uthmeier, announced an investigation into the council members who had initially voted against the agreement, arguing that the city was implementing an illegal sanctuary policy.
Uthmeier referred to the laws passed by Florida lawmakers this year, which stipulate that state and local law enforcement agencies and supervising entities must make every effort "to support the enforcement of federal immigration law."
In this regard, the city attorney, Grant Alley, stated that the attorney general is the highest authority responsible for enforcing the law and demanded "immediate compliance with state immigration laws."
Fort Myers, Hialeah, Davie, Sunny Isles, Palm Beach Gardens, and Coral Gables, have signed the 287(g) program in Florida, which allows state and local law enforcement to collaborate with ICE in identifying and detaining undocumented immigrants.
Additionally, agreements have been signed to grant greater authority to security forces in the enforcement of immigration laws and to promote state laws that criminalize illegal entry into the state.
The governor has clearly stated that Florida will not be a sanctuary state and has taken steps to prohibit "sanctuary cities." This includes requiring state and local cooperation with federal immigration authorities and threatening to suspend local officials who refuse to cooperate with ICE.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Fort Myers Agreement with ICE and its Implications
What does the agreement between Fort Myers and ICE entail?
The agreement between Fort Myers and ICE allows local officials to collaborate on the detention and deportation of undocumented immigrants. This includes training from ICE to enhance actions against illegal immigration. The measure arises in a context of political pressure from Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who has threatened to penalize officials who do not cooperate with federal immigration authorities.
How does the 287(g) program affect cities in Florida?
The 287(g) program allows local law enforcement to act as federal immigration agents. This includes the identification, processing, and detention of undocumented immigrants. In Florida, cities like Hialeah, Davie, and Fort Myers have signed such agreements, reinforcing their commitment to the strict enforcement of immigration laws under the administration of Ron DeSantis.
What are the concerns regarding racial profiling and human rights?
The main concerns revolve around the possibility that these agreements may encourage the creation of racial profiles and the violation of human rights. Immigrant rights advocates fear that the agreements could lead to unjustified detentions and discriminatory actions by law enforcement, thereby affecting the trust between immigrant communities and local authorities.
What measures has Ron DeSantis taken regarding immigration in Florida?
Ron DeSantis has implemented strict measures to combat illegal immigration in Florida. These include criminalizing illegal entry into the state, signing agreements under the 287(g) program, and threatening sanctions against officials who do not cooperate with ICE. DeSantis has positioned Florida as a leading state in the enforcement of restrictive immigration policies.
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