Florida’s Republican Attorney General James Uthmeier issued a stern warning Wednesday to city officials in Key West, accusing the commission of violating state law by voting to terminate a formal partnership with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
The vote, taken earlier this month, canceled Key West’s participation in the 287(g) program.
The federally authorized agreement empowers local law enforcement to perform certain immigration enforcement functions.
But under Florida law, cities are required to assist federal immigration enforcement, and the move could carry steep legal consequences.
In a letter sent to Key West commissioners, Uthmeier reminded city leaders that Florida law “unequivocally forbids sanctuary policies.”
By voiding an active 287(g) agreement, Key West had effectively declared itself a “sanctuary” jurisdiction.
“Failure to take corrective action will result in enforcement of all applicable civil and criminal penalties, including removal from office,” Uthmeier wrote.
The attorney general said Florida law not only prohibits sanctuary city policies but also obligates local governments to use their “best efforts” to support the enforcement of federal immigration law.
“In this instance, however, it’s worse,” Uthmeier said.