Q: Illegal immigration is a hot topic; how does this affect SJSO?
A: The St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office has been enrolled in the federal 287(g) program for many years, which allows SJSO deputies to conduct immigration enforcement in partnership with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). We have a full-time task force that has been working on Interstate 95 to combat narcotics and human trafficking; this group will also assist with immigration enforcement.
Q: What can you tell us about your working relationship with the federal government?
A: We have a duty to partner with federal officials and the new administration has been crystal clear that illegal immigration is a priority. We have had a strong relationship with our federal partners for many years working not just immigration, but human trafficking, sex trafficking, narcotics, and other illegal activity.
Q: How do you prioritize immigration enforcement?
A: The priority is finding illegal aliens who are wanted for crimes. We meet frequently with federal, state, and local partners to discuss the worst of the worst, criminal aliens wanted in Florida or in the immediate area. If you are wanted — whether you’re an illegal alien or you’re a citizen of the United States — we are going to find you and hold you accountable for your actions.
Q: What is the best way for our readers to contact you with any questions or suggestions about this article?
A: They can email me at sheriff@sjso.org or call me at (904) 824-8304. Also, our website, www.sjso.org has a wealth of resources, from alarm registration to Crime Stoppers to our Neighbors app.
