The Juniata County Sheriff's Office in Pennsylvania has joined the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Task Force Model, a program that grants local law enforcement limited immigration enforcement authority. As reported by ABC27, this agreement allows deputies to interrogate individuals suspected of being in the country illegally, make some warrantless arrests, and detain people on behalf of ICE.
Sheriff Joshua Stimeling confirmed that the office is in the early stages of signing a 287(g) agreement with ICE, which is designed to enhance cooperation between local and federal agencies. "Our hope and goal is that it will enable law enforcement agencies across the nation to work together in the interest of justice to make this great nation a better, safer place for all," Stimeling said.
The Task Force Model is part of a broader effort to increase ICE's reach by partnering with local law enforcement. However, participation in the program does not typically include additional funding for the local agencies involved.
Members of the public with information about suspected immigration violations or related criminal activity are encouraged to contact the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or submit information online via the ICE Tip Form.
Other local departments, such as the Derry County Constable's Office and the Franklin County Sheriff's Office, are also part of the program, indicating a growing trend of local law enforcement agencies in Pennsylvania participating in federal immigration enforcement efforts.