Washington, DC - Patrick Yoes, National President of the Fraternal Order of Police, issued the following statement today:

“We have good news today from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for law enforcement agencies that have partnered or are considering partnering with ICE under the 287(g) Task Force Model (TFM).

“The 287(g) program is for State and local law enforcement agencies and is critical to public safety and homeland security because it allows these agencies to partner with ICE on immigration enforcement.  Law enforcement agencies that want to participate must sign a Memorandum of Understanding and, in return, ICE trains and credentials Task Force Officers (TFOs) to support the public safety mission and make arrests for violations of our nation’s immigration laws  as part of their routine duties

“Soon, DHS will roll out two new reimbursement opportunities designed to strengthen local and State agencies’ operational capabilities and recognize the dedication of TFOs serving these agencies.  The new reimbursement models reflect DHS’s commitment to equipping our TFM programs with the tools and resources needed to meet all challenges.

“Every trained and credentialed TFO will receive up to $7,500 for essential equipment, including a laptop and mobile phone with cellular service upon becoming operational.  In addition, qualified law enforcement agencies may receive up to $100,000 for the purposes of purchasing new vehicles.

“Later this year, ICE will be able to fully reimburse qualified agencies for the annual salary and benefits of each eligible TFO, including overtime coverage up to 25% of the officer's annual salary.  In addition, these agencies will be eligible for quarterly monetary performance awards based on the successful location of aliens unlawfully present in our country and the overall assistance provided to support ICE's mission to defend the homeland.

“The National FOP encourages all law enforcement agencies to consider using all three of the 287(g) programs—the Jail Enforcement Model, the Warrant Service Officer program, in addition to the TFM.

“Let’s be clear—this is a shared, national effort, not just a Federal mission.  The protection of our homeland and the rigorous enforcement of our country’s immigration laws are critical to the safety of our communities. Working together with our Federal partners, we can build a safer, stronger America. I urge FOP leaders to make their agency’s leadership aware of the benefits of the 287(g) program, especially with the new reimbursement models through the TFM.”