Florida Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia announced more than $166,000 in funding for three local law enforcement agencies to support immigration enforcement efforts.
The funding was awarded to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, the Bradford County Sheriff’s Office and the Town of Cross City through the State Board of Immigration Enforcement.
Ingoglia said the money is intended to help local agencies working with federal immigration authorities.
“The Biden administration not only allowed reckless illegal immigration across our borders, they intensified it,” Ingoglia said. “However, under President Trump and Governor DeSantis, we have cracked down on removing criminal illegal aliens off our streets. I am thankful for the dedication and tireless efforts of our law enforcement partners who have worked tirelessly to keep Floridians safe.”
The Marion County Sheriff’s Office received $69,117, the Bradford County Sheriff’s Office received $77,200 and the Town of Cross City received $20,000.
Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods said the funding will help his deputies carry out immigration-related enforcement work more safely and effectively.
“Illegal immigration has impacted every community across the nation,” Woods said. “The money awarded to my office by the State Board of Immigration Enforcement helps ensure the safety of our deputies by giving them the tools to do their jobs safely and efficiently.”
Cross City Police Chief Jamey King also praised the award, saying the money will strengthen his department’s ability to address illegal immigration.
“The funding awarded by CFO Ingoglia strengthens our police department’s capabilities to protect citizens from the negative impacts of illegal immigration,” King said. “Thank you for having our back while we arrest and deport criminal illegal aliens.”
Local law enforcement agencies can receive reimbursement through the State Board of Immigration Enforcement for immigration enforcement activities. The funding is tied to enforcement partnerships under the federal 287(g) program, which allows state and local law enforcement agencies to work with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Ingoglia serves on the State Board of Immigration Enforcement as part of the Florida Cabinet. Other members include Gov. Ron DeSantis, Attorney General James Uthmeier and Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson.
