Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier warned that Broward County Sheriff Gregory Tony may be removed from his position if he fails to enforce immigration operations.
Describing the county’s agreements with ICE, Uthmeier wrote, “Florida’s ‘best efforts’ law means what it says–the law isn’t satisfied by entering agreements you have no intention of fulfilling. Florida law unambiguously and intentionally requires more.”
“Broward County citizens deserve to be safe from crime, especially crime that is preventable through proactive enforcement of immigration law. Florida law and policy prioritize removing illegal aliens from our communities,” he added. “So must you.”
“My office will use every tool available to ensure local officials obey Florida law and protect public safety. Penalties for failure to adhere to the obligations set forth in § 908.104(1), Florida Statutes, include declaratory and injunctive relief, being held in contempt, or removal from office by the Governor pursuant to § 908.107, Florida Statutes,” the letter said.
The letter follows Tony stating in a recent meeting that the sheriff’s office has “other priorities,” noting that “immigration is not one of them.” He went on to say that arresting illegal aliens is “not within our purview, it’s not within our responsibility, and I won’t participate in it.”
Uthmeier said that he hopes the statements were “more political posturing, but if not, your expressed positions would constitute a failure of your statutory obligation.”
Last month, Governor Ron DeSantis (R) announced that Florida troopers were the first in the nation to receive federal credentials to arrest illegal immigrants. More than 100 Florida Highway Patrol troopers have been sworn in as special deputy U.S. Marshals, a program allowing those with the credentials to carry out activities above those permitted under ICE’s 287(g) program.
