Florida AG Warns Sheriff Over Immigration Enforcement

Broward Sheriff Gregory Tony is under scrutiny from Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier after stating his department will not prioritize immigration enforcement against undocumented immigrants who have not committed crimes. Uthmeier threatened Tony with removal from office if he fails to support federal immigration law as mandated by Florida statutes. The dispute centers on Tony’s refusal to involve his deputies in immigration raids or arrests of law-abiding undocumented residents, while reaffirming his commitment to arresting individuals who commit crimes. Tony responded by detailing Broward’s cooperation with ICE, including participation in 287(g) agreements, and asserted continued compliance with legal obligations. The exchange highlights a broader conflict between local law enforcement discretion and state-level pressure to enforce federal immigration mandates. Both officials have cited specific criminal cases to justify their respective positions.