Inside Florida’s Immigration Enforcement: A Ride-Along with St. Johns County Task Force

Inside Florida’s Immigration Enforcement: A Ride-Along with St. Johns County Task Force

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. – Local law enforcement agencies are stepping up to meet the Trump administration’s challenge to apprehend illegal immigrants. They are working closely with federal immigration authorities to execute arrests effectively.

Recently, Fox News Digital observed this cooperation firsthand by accompanying the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office during their field operations. The Sheriff’s task force collaborates with agencies like the Department of Homeland Security, Border Patrol, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement to tackle illegal immigration, dismantle human smuggling networks, and combat sex trafficking.

The Task Force Structure

Leading the task force is Sgt. Bobby Kukar, who heads a team of approximately 20 to 25 law enforcement officers from local, state, and federal agencies. They conduct regular operations along the heavily trafficked Interstate 95 corridor.

Before starting their operations, Sheriff Robert Hardwick stressed the importance of having probable cause before conducting traffic stops. Lt. Jessica Hines, also from the Sheriff’s Office, reinforced this point by explaining that probable cause is essential for building a solid case against suspected illegal migrants.

Apprehension in Action

In one notable incident, task force officers apprehended two suspected migrant brothers from Colombia. They were pulled over for speeding along I-95 and were found to be driving without a valid driver’s license.

The officers grew suspicious when the brothers could not provide proper documentation. Border Patrol Chief Patrol Agent Matthew Zetts arrived promptly, using specialized software to verify the brothers’ immigration status.

During their conversations, law enforcement began to suspect that the brothers might be involved in drug trafficking. Observations made by Fox News Digital showed authorities inspecting the car, noting several irregularities, such as repeated screw holes on one side, which raised alarm.

Sgt. Kukar detailed why this was concerning. It could suggest that the bumper section had been removed multiple times, potentially serving as a compartment for smuggling drugs across the border.

In-Depth Searches and Collaborations

Shortly after the initial stop, SJSO K-9 handler Rob Hill arrived with a police dog. The canine quickly indicated the presence of illegal substances. As a result, officers seized the vehicle for a more thorough examination.

The two brothers were detained under an ICE hold and were later transported to ICE’s Jacksonville field office for processing.

This operation in St. Johns County exemplifies how local law enforcement collaborates with federal agencies to enhance community safety and tackle the ongoing challenges posed by illegal immigration.

A Commitment to Public Safety

Sheriff Hardwick has made it clear that under his leadership, the county prioritizes public safety. This commitment has translated into the formation and operation of the task force, which has intensified since President Trump’s election.

Furthermore, St. Johns County participates in the 287(g) program. This program allows ICE to delegate various immigration enforcement functions to state and local officers, enabling them to identify and detain individuals suspected of being in the country illegally.

Ongoing Strategy Meetings

Every Friday at 2 p.m., Sheriff Hardwick meets with federal, state, and local partners to discuss the criminal aliens considered most dangerous within Florida or its nearby regions.

He issued a clear warning for those wanted, regardless of citizenship status. In Florida, law enforcement agencies will actively pursue individuals who are fugitives, whether they are illegal immigrants or U.S. citizens.

Looking Ahead

Fox News Digital continues to seek comment from ICE and DHS regarding these operations and their overall strategy for addressing illegal immigration.

The efforts of the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office illustrate a proactive approach to managing immigration enforcement amidst evolving federal policies. As the Biden administration considers changes to immigration law and enforcement, local jurisdictions remain on the front line, determined to uphold public safety while navigating the complexities of immigration issues.