Florida Traffic Stops Now Lead to Deportation Under New Law

Florida is transforming its highway patrol and agricultural inspections into a frontline immigration enforcement network. Nearly all state troopers are now deputized under a federal program. This move follows a fatal crash involving an undocumented driver. The policy shift has ignited legal challenges and a fierce national debate.

According to the Wall Street Journal, the state has trained over 1,770 troopers under the ICE 287(g) program. This allows them to perform immigration checks during routine traffic stops. Since March, these efforts have led to more than 3,500 detentions. State officials argue this enhances public safety on roadways.

Agricultural Stations Become New Enforcement Front

The enforcement expansion now includes Florida’s agricultural inspection stations. Following a deadly August crash, officials ordered a major change. All 23 checkpoints will now screen truck drivers for immigration status.

The policy change stems from a tragic accident. Authorities say Harjinder Singh made an illegal U-turn. A van then drove into the side of his truck. The collision resulted in three fatalities. Reports indicate Singh was in the U.S. illegally and held a commercial license from California.

Political and Legal Repercussions Intensify

Governor Ron DeSantis has championed the aggressive approach. His administration boasts of nearly 200 arrests in a recent weeklong sting operation. The state also conducted its first deportation flight from Tallahassee.

These actions are not without controversy. Civil rights groups like the ACLU warn the program encourages racial profiling. They fear officers may use minor traffic violations as a pretext for immigration checks. Legal challenges against the state’s policies are already underway.

Proponents argue the measures are necessary for safety. They point to the fatal crash as a key example of the risks. One trucker told CBS Miami that undocumented individuals should not hold commercial licenses. The state’s attorney general has vowed to pursue action against states that issue licenses without strict verification.

The program represents a significant investment of state resources. Florida has allocated approximately $300 million for its immigration enforcement efforts. This includes funding for makeshift detention facilities and extensive officer training. The state’s approach is being closely watched as a potential model for others.

Florida’s immigration checkpoints mark a bold new experiment in state-level enforcement. The strategy deeply integrates immigration control into daily law enforcement. Its future will likely be decided in both the court of public opinion and the federal judiciary.

Info at your fingertips

What is the 287(g) program?

It is a federal program that partners with local law enforcement. It deputizes officers to perform immigration enforcement duties. This includes questioning and detaining individuals.

Why did Florida expand this program?

The expansion followed a fatal traffic crash involving an undocumented driver. State officials cited public safety as the primary reason for the broader enforcement.

How many people have been detained?

Since March, state troopers have made over 3,500 immigration-related detentions. This figure was reported by the Wall Street Journal.

What are the criticisms of the program?

Critics argue it leads to racial profiling and erodes trust in police. Organizations like the ACLU say it encourages stops for minor infractions to check status.

Are agricultural stations now immigration checkpoints?

Yes. Florida’s 23 agricultural inspection stations now also function as immigration checkpoints for commercial truck drivers.

Trusted Sources: The Wall Street Journal, CBS Miami, Associated Press.