DeSantis Administration Threatens Action Against Florida Island City Over Ending ICE Police Agreement

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’s administration has issued warnings to the city of Key Biscayne after its city commissioners voted unanimously to terminate a longstanding cooperation agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) that allowed local police to assist with federal immigration enforcement.

The city’s decision, announced last week, ended decades of collaboration under the 287(g) program, citing concerns over civil liberties and the community impact of ICE operations. Key Biscayne officials argued the move would better preserve trust between residents and local law enforcement, particularly in immigrant communities.

In response, the state’s Department of Law Enforcement and the Attorney General’s Office said they are evaluating whether the decision violates Florida statutes requiring local-era compliance with federal immigration agreements. The administration has requested that Key Biscayne officials justify their move or face potential legal consequences as part of a compliance review.

Governor DeSantis criticized the city’s action in a statement, asserting that dissolving the agreement undermines public safety and state sovereignty. He emphasized that law enforcement partnerships are vital to effectively addressing crime and supporting state law.

Key Biscayne’s mayor defended the vote, stating the decision reflects local priorities and community sentiment, and vowed to contest any state action. The city council plans to maintain its stance, highlighting the importance of prioritizing public trust and individual rights while maintaining cooperation with other federal agencies.

With input from Fox News.