The Mississippi Office of the State Auditor (OSA) has entered into an agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to train and approve select OSA agents to carry out certain immigration enforcement functions in Mississippi when needed, State Auditor Shad White announced Tuesday.
“ICE agents and the Trump administration are working hard to stop illegal immigration, and they need every law enforcement officer willing to assist in their corner,” White said. “Two agents from my office volunteered to be trained in immigration law enforcement and to assist ICE whenever they are short-handed in this area, and we are grateful for the chance to serve in this way.”
The partnership falls under ICE’s nationwide 287(g) program, which authorizes state and local law enforcement agencies to assist with immigration enforcement after receiving federal training. According to OSA, participating agents will gain access to ICE resources and training. They will continue their primary role of investigating alleged misuse of public funds, with the ability to assist ICE during emergencies.
“Last year our team found illegal immigration costs Mississippi taxpayers around $100 million per year in public education, healthcare, and criminal justice expenses,” White said. “So, if we can do anything to stop this by helping ICE, we will do it.”
White encouraged other law enforcement agencies in Mississippi to consider joining the 287(g) program. The announcement did not specify when the agent training will begin.
