Smith County considering joining ICE task force

SMITH COUNTY – In the Smith County Commissioners Court meeting scheduled for Tuesday morning, a motion will be considered involving the Precinct 4 Constable’s Office joining the 2867G Task Force Model Program. According to our news partner KETK, the 2867G Task Force Model is a partnership with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) that allows local law enforcement to enforce U.S. immigration laws, including identifying and processing immigrants with pending or active criminal charges.

Smith County Precinct 4 Constable Josh Joplin recently defended his office’s decision to consider joining the 287(g) Task Force Model Program while reassuring residents that he will not target immigrants.

“We are not forming an immigration unit, doing sweeps, or conducting raids,” Joplin said. “We will not deviate from the services and standards the citizens of this precinct expect and deserve.”

Last week, the Bullard City Council tabled the decision to authorize an agreement to join the 2867G Task Force Model Program. Meanwhile, the Arp Police Department is in the beginning phases of joining the program, according to Chief Joe Keegan.

Earlier this year, the Smith County Sheriff’s Office agreed to join the program, prompting protests throughout the county. Sheriff Larry Smith defended the decision to join the program, stating it protects the people of Smith County.

“This program not only provides the Smith County Sheriff’s Office with the ability to ensure the immigration laws are enforced within Smith County, but it also mandates we enforce the Federal Immigration Laws,” Smith said.

The Smith County Commissioners Court meeting will be held at the courthouse annex beginning at 9:30 a.m. If Smith County does reach an agreement to join, the program officers will undergo training from ICE officials, which will educate them on enforcing immigration laws, multicultural communication and avoiding racial profiling.