HUMSI — Human Security Initiative

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ICE shifts to quieter enforcement relying on local police partnerships

Apr 4, 2026

ICE shifts to quieter enforcement relying on local police partnerships

Following the Minnesota ICE surge in which federal officers killed two U.S. citizens and faced widespread criticism, ICE is shifting toward a less visible enforcement approach that relies heavily on local law enforcement partnerships through the 287(g) program. The program has expanded exponentially, with over 1,600 agreements now in place across 39 states, allowing local police to enforce immigration law during routine traffic stops and other interactions. DHS leadership has stated the goal is for ICE to become more of a transport service, picking up undocumented immigrants from local jails rather than conducting front-line enforcement operations.

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