Indiana Town Faces Funding Loss Over ICE Agreement
Small-town police department in Indiana risks losing federal funds over ICE collaboration, with a senator stepping in to protect the agreement.
2 min read
Stinesville, Indiana, a small town with roughly 200 residents, is facing potential funding loss over its agreement with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The Stinesville Police Department signed a 287(g) program agreement with ICE in February, allowing local officers to arrest undocumented immigrants and assist in transferring them to federal custody. However, the Monroe County Board of Commissioners raised concerns in September, questioning the department’s authority to enter the agreement without their approval.
Legal and Financial Risks Highlighted
Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita responded with a six-page letter stating that the agreement did not require the board’s approval and warned that any interference could result in fines of up to $10,000 per violation. Despite this, the board remained hesitant, with Town Attorney Darla Brown offering two options: ratify the agreement or terminate it. The board’s president, Scott McGlocklin, delayed action until November due to limited attendance.
Senator Banks Intervenes to Protect Agreement
Senator Jim Banks (R-IN) stepped in, sending a letter to the town board and county commissioners expressing concern over the defunding effort. Banks emphasized that the agreement includes critical funding and training that strengthens public safety and that local entities violate state law by restricting law enforcement from working with federal authorities.
Support and Funding Already Received
More than 45 Indiana law enforcement agencies have similar agreements with ICE, according to Rokita. The Stinesville department has already received $122,500 in federal funding from the agreement, though the money has not been spent yet. Deputy police chief Shane Pittman supported the agreement, stating it would bring much-needed resources to the department, which has previously had to purchase its own equipment.
Broader Implications for Law Enforcement
The situation highlights the ongoing debate over federal-local collaboration in immigration enforcement and the financial and legal risks faced by small communities. As the town board prepares to make a decision, the involvement of Senator Banks signals a broader effort to protect law enforcement partnerships with federal agencies.
Source: Daily Wire
