First on FOX: The deputy mayor of the town of Florida, which has one of the nation’s largest populations of immigrants in Venezuela, supports a deal that will allow city law enforcement to cooperate with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency (ICE).
Maureen Polas, deputy mayor of Doral, Florida, told Fox News Digital. “By moving this forward, the city of Doral ensures that it is fully adhered to both state and federal orders, a key step in maintaining public trust and supporting the rule of law.”
Comments are expected to vote for a potential agreement with ICE on Wednesday that will allow city law enforcement agencies to carry out immigration enforcement.
Florida’s largest Venezuela base is trying to join forces with ice: Report
Deputy Mayor Doral Maureen Polas told Fox News Digital he supports the city’s potential agreement to cooperate with US immigration and habits. (Getty Images)
City Council members will vote on Wednesday whether to inked with ICE for the 287(g) program. This allows DORAL police officers to assist ICE in detention, questioning and processing of individuals suspected of violating federal immigration laws.
Doral has become one of the latest local law enforcement agencies to join President Donald Trump’s push to strengthen deportation efforts, with a 287(g) agreement with ICE, which has been more widely used nationwide since the new president took office in January.
That effort was boosted by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. Ron DeSantis encouraged local cooperation with federal immigration authorities through a law requiring local agencies responsible for prisons to register in the 287(g) program.
However, Doral’s involvement in the program could be considered a seemingly surprising turn, with the city based in one of the largest proportions of Venezuelan immigrants in the United States, leading to concerns about the many programs of local residents.
The agreement with 287(g)ICE is becoming more common nationwide. (John Moore/Getty Images)
Blue State Sheriffs combine troops to fight back against the Sanctuary Law
Doral Councillor Dina Cabral acknowledges these concerns and tells Fox News Digital that Doral Police Chief Edwin Lopez further details the program during Wednesday’s minutes, pointing out that immigration enforcement is a “delicate topic” for many in the community.
“I think it’s important to approach this issue with caution, clarity and complete transparency,” Cabral told Fox News Digital. “At this stage, I am not taking a final stand and I am waiting for a full presentation and discussion at the Council meeting before I issue any further statement.”
Porras acknowledged these concerns as well, but argued that the agreement was “not designed to discriminate against anyone” and “does not support its use for that purpose.”
Doral, Florida, has one of the largest populations of immigrants in Venezuela. (Getty Images via Da Varela/Miami Herald/Tribune News Service)
Click here to get the Fox News app
“As an experienced immigration attorney supporting families in South Florida, I understand the serious consequences of discriminatory practices and remain fully committed to ensuring that our laws are fair and justly applied,” Porras told Fox News Digital. “I make sure that our law-abiding residents are not affected negatively. My focus is on promoting public safety, protecting civil rights, ensuring that everyone in our community is safe and respected.”
Michael Lee is a Fox News writer. Before joining Fox News, Michael worked for Washington Examiner, Bongino.com, and for the impartial America. He has covered politics for over eight years.
Source link