Press release from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Recently, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) was granted $13.6 million in federal funds from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to bolster its collaboration with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under the 287(g) Task Force Model (TFM).

This financial support strengthens Florida’s dedication to maintaining law and order by enhancing the capabilities of state and local law enforcement agencies involved in immigration enforcement. The 287(g) program authorizes Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) officers to identify, process, and detain individuals violating federal immigration laws. Since March, the FHP has apprehended over 4,900 illegal aliens, including nearly 900 with criminal backgrounds.

“Florida’s law enforcement officers are at the forefront of shielding our state from the impacts of illegal immigration,” stated Executive Director Dave Kerner. “This funding enables us to expand our abilities and continue our partnership with ICE to uphold the law and ensure the safety of our communities.”

Through the 287(g) Task Force Model, FLHSMV will receive:

• $7,500 per federally trained Task Force Officer to purchase essential equipment
• $100,000 per operational agreement to acquire new vehicles that support immigration enforcement missions

This funding arrives at a pivotal moment. Nationwide and in Florida, law enforcement officers involved in immigration enforcement are encountering increasing threats and hostility. The funds will aid in protecting officers on the ground, enhancing mobility and response capabilities, and reaffirming Florida’s steadfast commitment to public safety and the rule of law.

The announcement of funding coincided with Florida’s second immigration enforcement operation of the week, spearheaded by the Florida Highway Patrol in collaboration with county, state, and federal partners. Involved agencies include 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. Key highlights of the operation include:

• 2,020 traffic stops.
• 1,539 citations issued.
• 461 illegal aliens apprehended.
• 235 misdemeanor charges.
• 75 felony charges.
• 45 illegal aliens with prior criminal history.
• Illegal aliens represented 19 countries, including Guatemala, El Salvador, China, Czech Republic, Cuba, India, Mexico, Cape Verde, Portugal, and Brazil.