CHARLOTTE, N.C. – To strengthen immigration enforcement across South Carolina, Attorney General Alan Wilson has called on the state’s sheriffs to work closely with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

This move comes as part of the ongoing efforts by the federal government to address illegal immigration nationwide.

Attorney General Wilson has sent a formal letter to sheriffs in South Carolina, urging them to join a voluntary program with ICE. This program is designed to allow local law enforcement to assist federal agents in carrying out immigration-related operations. By partnering with ICE, local law enforcement can play a direct role in identifying and detaining individuals suspected of being in the country illegally.

Wilson’s request highlights the growing tension between federal immigration policies and local authorities. While ICE has faced criticism for its aggressive deportation strategies, Wilson believes that local law enforcement has a responsibility to cooperate with federal agencies to ensure the rule of law is upheld. He argues that such partnerships help to make communities safer and prevent criminals from evading detection due to lack of coordination between local and federal authorities.

Legal Implications for Deputies

Wilson also clarified the legal responsibilities for deputies who choose to participate in the program. According to the Attorney General, local officers will not be required to act as federal immigration agents, but they will assist ICE in specific operations when requested. This cooperation is intended to help identify individuals who are subject to deportation orders or who have been involved in criminal activities.

Why the Partnership Matters

The partnership between local law enforcement and ICE has been a controversial topic in many parts of the country. Some argue that local police should focus on community safety rather than enforcing federal immigration laws. Others, however, believe that working with ICE is a necessary step to combat illegal immigration and criminal activities within immigrant communities.

South Carolina’s push for increased collaboration with ICE is part of a broader national effort by the Trump administration to reduce illegal immigration. By involving sheriffs, who are often the closest law enforcement officers to immigrant communities, the hope is to ensure that the law is enforced more effectively.

Opposition to the Plan

While some local law enforcement agencies have expressed support for the idea, others have voiced concerns. Critics argue that increased cooperation with ICE could lead to fear and mistrust among immigrant communities. They worry that people may be less likely to report crimes or cooperate with police if they fear that local officers could be working with immigration enforcement.

Despite these concerns, Wilson remains firm in his belief that local law enforcement should assist ICE in immigration enforcement. He points to the legal framework that allows for such cooperation and stresses that it is crucial for ensuring public safety.

Next Steps

As of now, several sheriffs in South Carolina have already expressed their willingness to enroll in the ICE program. Wilson’s office is working closely with these departments to implement the program statewide. It remains to be seen how many more sheriffs will join the initiative, as some continue to assess the potential impact on their communities.