Blue State Sheriffs Unite to Push Against Sanctuary Policies

In a bold move against Minnesota's widely adopted sanctuary policies, five sheriff’s offices in the state have signed agreements with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The counties of Cass, Crow Wing, Freeborn, Itasca, and Jackson have opted into the 287g program, which allows local law enforcement to assist ICE in immigration enforcement. This approach marks a stark departure in a state where 12 counties have rules limiting cooperation with federal immigration authorities.

Under these agreements, local agencies gain authority to identify and process undocumented immigrants who are already in custody and eligible for deportation. The program also includes a "task force model," enabling local law enforcement to act as a "force multiplier" for ICE's operations. Deputies from participating counties can attend 40-hour ICE training sessions and are expected to remain in regular contact with their nearest ICE field office.

The agreements have already had a noticeable impact. A deputy from Freeborn County admitted seeing a "definite uptick" in immigrant detentions since the program began. While supporters claim this helps address public safety by targeting violent offenders, critics argue the system disproportionately impacts individuals with minor infractions, such as misdemeanors or traffic violations.

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison's office has raised concerns about potential drawbacks of these agreements. "While 287g agreements are sometimes touted as a tool for getting violent offenders off the street, studies have shown that large numbers of people detained through 287g-related enforcement have committed only misdemeanors or traffic violations," said a spokesperson for Ellison’s office.

Criticism aside, the new additions bring the total number of Minnesota counties participating in 287g agreements to seven, joining Sherburne and Kandiyohi counties, which have long collaborated with ICE.

In a state steeped in debates over immigration policies, this shift is bound to stir controversy. While some see it as a necessary measure to enforce the law, others view it as an erosion of trust between immigrant communities and local authorities. The outcome of this cooperation remains to be seen, but one thing’s clear: Minnesota is shaping up to be a battleground over immigration enforcement.