Full Breakdown
Maryland Sheriffs Continue ICE Cooperation Despite New Law
2/22/2026, 4:35:07 AM
Legislative Changes and Local Responses
Maryland's recent legislation, signed by Governor Wes Moore, aims to end local law enforcement's cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) by terminating 287(g) agreements. These agreements allowed local law enforcement agencies to collaborate with ICE in detaining unauthorized immigrants. The law voids existing contracts across nine counties, including Frederick, Wicomico, Harford, Carroll, Allegany, Cecil, Garrett, St. Mary's, and Washington counties. Despite this, sheriffs from these counties have announced plans to continue working with ICE through alternative methods that comply with the new law.
Frederick County Sheriff Charles Jenkins emphasized that his department can still communicate with ICE regarding individuals with detainers, stating, "We can continue to work with ICE without necessarily being in the program." Jenkins highlighted the historical significance of the 287(g) program in Frederick County, which has facilitated the turnover of approximately 1,890 unauthorized immigrants to ICE over 18 years. He expressed concerns that the new law could lead to increased tensions between federal officials and citizens dissatisfied with ICE's deportation practices.
Official Statements and Legislative Intent
Governor Moore's office has clarified that the new law does not prevent local law enforcement from notifying ICE about impending releases of individuals with detainers. A representative from Moore's office referred to a statement from the Garrett County Sheriff's Office, asserting that the law "does not eliminate or hinder our ability to communicate with ICE." Moore has framed the legislation as a means to maintain community trust, stating, "We refuse to blur the lines between state and federal authority in ways that undermine the trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve."
Criticism and Concerns from Law Enforcement
Sheriffs across Maryland have voiced frustration over the new law, arguing that partnerships with ICE are crucial for understanding immigration laws and ensuring public safety. Harford County Sheriff Jeff Gahler warned that the legislation could lead to an influx of unauthorized immigrants, as ICE will no longer be able to partner with detention centers to remove criminals. He expressed disappointment with lawmakers, suggesting that they were unresponsive to concerns raised by law enforcement.
Alternative Strategies and Future Implications
In light of the new restrictions, sheriffs are exploring internal policies to replicate aspects of the 287(g) agreements. Sheriff Albert from another county noted the importance of building relationships with federal agencies, stating, "It’s building those relationships before we need them." As Maryland lawmakers prepare to further restrict cooperation with ICE, the effectiveness and legality of these workaround strategies remain uncertain.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
While sheriffs assert that they can continue to work with ICE, the full implications of the new law are still unfolding. Some sources indicate that upcoming legislative actions may further limit local law enforcement's ability to collaborate with federal immigration officials, potentially rendering the proposed workarounds illegal.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We can continue to work with ICE without necessarily being in the program,” — Charles Jenkins, Frederick County Sheriff
- “This bill draws a clear line: we will continue to work with federal partners to hold violent offenders accountable,” — Wes Moore, Governor of Maryland
- “Their minds were made up when the bill was dropped,” — Sheriff Albert, Maryland
