Tallahassee, FL — The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) has received $13.6 million in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The funds support the state’s partnership with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under the 287(g) Task Force Model (TFM).
The 287(g) program authorizes Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) troopers to identify, process, and detain individuals violating federal immigration laws. Since March, FHP has apprehended more than 4,900 individuals, including nearly 900 with criminal histories.
FLHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner stated: “Florida’s law enforcement officers are on the front lines of protecting our state from the consequences of illegal immigration. This investment allows us to expand our capabilities and continue working alongside ICE to enforce the law and safeguard our communities.”
The funding allocation includes:
- $7,500 per federally trained Task Force Officer for essential equipment.
- $100,000 per operational agreement for new vehicles supporting immigration enforcement missions.
The resources address reported increases in threats and hostility faced by law enforcement officers conducting immigration enforcement in Florida and nationwide. The funding enhances officer protection, mobility, and response capabilities.
The announcement occurred alongside Florida’s second immigration enforcement operation last week, conducted by FHP in coordination with county, state, and federal partners. Participating agencies included DHS, ICE, U.S. Border Patrol, Brevard County Sheriff’s Office, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Florida Gaming Control Commission, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Florida Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco, Florida Department of Financial Services, and the Florida Department of Lottery’s Division of Security.
Operation Highlights:
- 2,020 traffic stops conducted.
- 1,539 citations issued.
- 461 individuals apprehended for immigration violations.
- 235 misdemeanor charges filed.
- 75 felony charges filed.
- 45 apprehended individuals with prior criminal histories.
- Apprehended individuals represented 19 countries, including Guatemala, El Salvador, China, Czech Republic, Cuba, India, Mexico, Cape Verde, Portugal, and Brazil.
