Coral Gables police partner with ICE amid community backlash

In early 2023, the Coral Gables Police Department in Florida entered into a partnership agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This agreement, aimed at training local officers to execute certain immigration enforcement responsibilities, has stirred significant controversy among residents, business owners, and activist groups who argue that it exceeds legal requirements and could damage trust between law enforcement and immigrant communities. Opponents, including local resident Alana Greer, contended that the decision was unnecessary and inappropriate, emphasizing that Coral Gables was never under legal obligation to pursue this agreement. They expressed concerns about the potential for increased fear and mistrust among immigrants, suggesting that the police department should focus on protecting the community rather than acting as an arm of federal immigration authorities. Despite the backlash, Coral Gables Police Chief Ed Hudak defended the agreement, stating that the department would not target undocumented immigrants but would act to protect the community from illegal activities related to immigration enforcement. Mayor Vince Lago supported the partnership, clarifying that its intent was not to target the immigrant population but rather to enforce laws against individuals with criminal backgrounds. Meanwhile, Hialeah Police also agreed to a similar contract with ICE, allowing officers to stop and arrest individuals accused of immigration law violations. As a result, state representatives and community members raised alarms about the potential erosion of trust between these police departments and the immigrant community. The broader implications of these agreements reflect Florida’s ongoing efforts toward stricter local immigration enforcement and a shift in how municipalities collaborate with federal authorities in these matters. The decisions from Coral Gables and Hialeah align with a statewide push by Governor Ron DeSantis to enhance immigration enforcement through local law enforcement agencies, adding to a contentious national debate regarding immigration policy and local policing.