Multiple Florida universities look to deputize campus police to expand immigration enforcement

Several public universities in Florida are currently in talks with the federal government to deputize their campus police departments for immigration enforcement. This move comes as part of President Trump’s broader crackdown on immigration, which has included the revocation of visas from international students for various infractions.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has been a vocal supporter of the Trump Administration’s immigration policies, directing local and state agencies to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement efforts. As a result, schools like Florida Atlantic University, the University of Florida, and the University of South Florida are seeking to expand the authority of their campus police officers in immigration matters.

The push to deputize campus officers aligns with ICE’s 287(g) program, which allows state and local law enforcement officers to perform immigration officer functions under federal oversight. While no universities have officially entered the program yet, Florida schools are exploring options to strengthen immigration enforcement in line with DeSantis’ directives.

The University of Florida, for example, is considering the task force model under the 287(g) program, which would give officers the power to question individuals suspected of being in the country illegally and make arrests without warrants in certain cases. Other models, such as the jail enforcement model and the warrant service officer program, aim to streamline legal proceedings for undocumented immigrants in custody.

It’s important to note that the 287(g) program is still in the discussion phase at these universities, and no formal agreements have been reached. However, the potential expansion of immigration enforcement authority on college campuses has sparked debate and raised concerns among students and faculty.

As the situation continues to develop, it remains to be seen how these universities will navigate the complex intersection of immigration enforcement and campus security. With immigration policies constantly evolving, it’s crucial for schools to strike a balance between complying with federal guidelines and upholding the values of inclusivity and diversity on campus.