ICE asks Florida and Texas police not to talk about their role in raids, according to media
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) asked local police in Florida and Texas not to disclose information about their role in immigration raids, according to a directive reported by local media The Florida Trib and Two Can Be True. The immigration agency sent emails to authorities who signed a 287(g) agreement, which allows local police to collaborate in immigration operations, to warn them that "information obtained" through the agreement is "under ICE's control" and cannot be disseminated without federal approval, according to the media. The messages, sent between April 19 and May 5, ask local authorities to consult with ICE before sharing information about their participation in immigration operations when responding to Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests or media inquiries.
TL;DR
- ICE has asked local police in Florida and Texas not to disclose information about their role in immigration raids.
- Local authorities with 287(g) agreements were emailed instructions to consult ICE before sharing details.
- This directive applies to responses to FOIA requests, media inquiries, and public communications.
- The guidance may prevent agencies from answering basic questions about their participation in immigration operations.
- This policy contrasts with state transparency laws such as Florida's 'Sunshine Law'.
- Cooperation between local authorities and ICE has increased, particularly in Florida and Texas.
- Florida Governor Ron DeSantis mandated 287(g) agreements for all city and county authorities.
- Texas passed SB 8, requiring county sheriffs to enter into 287(g) agreements.