Florida Highway Patrol Assists with Federal Immigration Enforcement Efforts
About the Memorandum of Understanding
On January 29, Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), allowing FHP troopers to enforce immigration laws as part of his hardline immigration agenda.
The Agreement Details
Under the MOU, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) designates “certain employees of the Florida Highway Patrol as customs officers, without additional compensation, to perform the duties as on the ‘Designation, Customs Officer (Excepted) — Title 19 Task Force Officer’ (ICE Form 73-001).” The FHP personnel will be granted authority to carry out immigration law enforcement duties and provide support to ICE and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents during operations.
Operations and Training
FHP officers who are designated as customs officers will undergo specialized training to familiarize them with federal immigration law and procedures. The training will focus on immigration enforcement, smuggling, and counterterrorism. After completing the training, the troopers will work alongside ICE agents and CBP officers to target illegal immigration activity and disrupt drug and human smuggling networks.
Strengthening National Security and Border Control
By partnering with ICE and HSI, FHP is leveraging its expertise and resources to combat illegal immigration, human trafficking, and drug trafficking. The collaborative efforts will enable FHP personnel to identify, detain, and transport individuals with illegal immigration statuses to ICE for processing and possible removal.
Implementation and Oversight
The MOU establishes a mechanism for FHP personnel to notify ICE and CBP of individuals who are subject to immigration law enforcement actions during routine traffic stops or other FHP operations. ICE and HSI will maintain oversight and support to ensure compliance with federal regulations and guidelines. FHP troopers will receive training and support to ensure seamless integration with ICE and CBP operations.
Conclusion
The FHP’s assistance in federal immigration enforcement efforts strengthens national security, borders, and law enforcement protocols. By sharing resources and expertise, the MOU enhances public safety and complements the FHP’s commitment to protecting citizens and visitors throughout the state of Florida.
FAQs
Q: How many FHP officers will participate in the training program?
A: The MOU does not specify the number of FHP officers who will undergo training; however, FHP will deploy designated personnel on a case-by-case basis based on operational needs and priorities.
Q: What is the training duration?
A: FHP personnel who are designated as customs officers will receive specialized training for a duration of approximately one month, pending federal approval and compliance with existing protocols.
Q: Can FHP troopers detain or arrest individuals under this agreement?
A: Under the MOU, FHP troopers with proper training and designations as customs officers are authorized to assist ICE and HSI agents with detaining or arresting individuals during immigration law enforcement operations. However, FHP officers will primarily provide support to ICE and HSI agents while adhering to existing protocols and procedures.
