Things are about to change!
House Republican Clay Higgins is urging local law enforcement to prepare for increased cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) as the nation tackles the growing issue of illegal immigration and crime. Higgins, a staunch advocate for law and order who represents Southern Louisiana, is calling on local agencies to “get geared up” for the ongoing immigration enforcement actions being ramped up under the Trump administration.
During a House Federal Law Enforcement Oversight Subcommittee hearing, Higgins stressed the need for local law enforcement to align with the efforts to secure the border and remove criminal illegal immigrants from communities. He emphasized, “ICE is coming,” warning that local law enforcement officers will soon have the opportunity to join task forces with ICE to help remove dangerous, criminal illegals from their states and communities.
“This operation is going to be ongoing,” Higgins said, describing the mission as a necessary step to restore order and security to the country. He expressed concern about the “weaponization of our justice system” and the lawlessness in cities that have been exacerbated by sanctuary policies that prevent local police from aiding in federal immigration enforcement.
Higgins promised that the subcommittee will continue to support President Trump’s efforts, ensuring that he has the necessary resources to combat the surge of illegal immigration and rising crime.
Testifying during the hearing, experts raised alarms about the dangers of sanctuary city policies, which hinder the ability of law enforcement to cooperate with federal immigration authorities. Joseph Humire, executive director of the Center for a Secure Free Society, highlighted the national security risks posed by illegal immigration, noting that 14 million illegal immigrants have entered the U.S. under the Biden administration. He warned that even a small percentage of these individuals could be linked to criminal organizations, creating a significant security threat.
Sheriff Bob Gualtieri of Pinellas County, Florida, also testified, underscoring the importance of local law enforcement’s participation in the ICE 287(g) program. This program allows local agencies to assist in immigration enforcement, including detaining and processing criminal illegal immigrants. He called on Congress to pass legislation to empower all local jails to hold criminal illegals for ICE, urging lawmakers to give immigration detainers the full force of law.
“It’s time to fix this,” Sheriff Gualtieri said. “Criminal illegals shouldn’t be released back into our communities to commit more crimes.”
This issue remains a top priority for Republicans, who believe that securing the border and holding illegal immigrants accountable is crucial for ensuring the safety and security of American citizens. Local law enforcement is seen as a key partner in making these efforts effective, and Congress must take action to ensure they have the tools they need to protect their communities from the dangers posed by illegal immigration.
