Florida Sheriff Emphasizes Collaboration With Federal Immigration Officials

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Baltimore Field Officer director Matt Elliston listens during a briefing, Monday, Jan. 27, 2025, in Silver Spring, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File)

St. Johns County Sheriff Robert Hardwick emphasized the importance of collaborating with federal immigration enforcement officials to combat criminal migrants. The county is part of the 287(g) program, allowing local law enforcement officers to assist U.S. Immigration and Customs Protection (ICE) in identifying and detaining suspected illegal immigrants.

Sheriff Hardwick highlighted the department's efforts to work with federal partners on various illegal activities, including human trafficking, sex trafficking, guns, narcotics, and immigration enforcement. Deputies collaborate with Customs and Border Patrol, ICE, and ERO to enforce laws along Interstate 95.

If individuals are stopped for a traffic violation and found to lack valid identification or legal status, they are taken to the St. Johns County Jail. The sheriff's office regularly runs Immigration Alien Query (IAQ) checks to identify individuals with deportation orders or warrants.

Hardwick stressed the importance of holding all sheriffs accountable for enforcing deportations and collaborating with federal agencies. Weekly meetings are held to discuss apprehending criminal aliens, emphasizing the commitment to pursuing wanted individuals regardless of their immigration status.

Sheriff Hardwick emphasizes collaboration with federal partners for various illegal activities.

St. Johns County participates in the 287(g) program with ICE for immigration enforcement.

Deputies work with federal agencies to enforce laws along Interstate 95.

The county employs license plate readers on its borders to track incoming vehicles for stolen cars, wanted persons, or deportation orders. This technology has already yielded significant results, with multiple hits recorded daily.

Hardwick acknowledged the challenges posed by fake identification documents but expressed confidence in the county's proactive approach to law enforcement. He referenced recent immigration legislation in Florida and emphasized the need to track individuals with warrants for deportation.

Looking ahead, Hardwick urged preparedness for potential changes in immigration policies, emphasizing the importance of innovative strategies in law enforcement. By thinking outside the box and leading by example, St. Johns County aims to enhance public safety and uphold the rule of law.