KEY WEST, Fla. – Tensions flared and emotions ran high at a packed Key West City Hall Tuesday as city commissioners revisited their stance on cooperating with federal immigration enforcement under the controversial 287(g) agreement.
The agreement, which allows local law enforcement to assist U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in immigration-related arrests, was signed by the city’s police chief in March — without the approval or input of the city commission.
That changed last week, when Key West commissioners voted to void the agreement, drawing a standing ovation from the audience.
But the move drew swift backlash from Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier, whose office sent a warning letter to the city stating that failure to comply with the program could result in civil or criminal penalties for the commission, including potential removal from office.
The commission is now deciding how to move forward.
Meanwhile, federal immigration agents continue targeted enforcement operations across the Florida Keys, including arrests in Key West of individuals living in the country illegally with criminal records.
Ahead of the meeting, some residents gathered outside selling T-shirts and voicing opposition to the state’s position, arguing that participation in the 287(g) program is voluntary — not mandatory.
Others spoke out in support of the immigrant community.
“I don’t have a problem upholding federal law, but I do have a problem entering a voluntary agreement our city doesn’t have to engage in,” said Key West resident Chris McNulty. “We want to make sure that everyone can see that immigrants keep our island alive.”
“They are the heart and soul of our community. We need to fight for them,” another resident said.
The commission is expected to continue debating how to proceed as the legal and political pressure mounts.