The Florida Attorney General’s office has launched an investigation into three Fort Myers City Council members who voted against an immigration enforcement agreement. The proposal, which would have allowed local police to receive federal training under the 287(g) program to assist Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), resulted in a 3-3 deadlock. The decision has sparked strong reactions from state leaders, with Governor Ron DeSantis emphasizing Florida’s commitment to federal immigration enforcement laws.
Governor DeSantis, who is term-limited and cannot seek re-election, took to social media following the March 18 vote, stating, “Thanks to the laws we’ve recently enacted in Florida, local entities are required to participate in federal immigration enforcement. Florida will ensure its laws are followed, and when it comes to immigration—the days of inaction are over.” Congressman Byron Donalds, a Republican running for governor, also weighed in, calling the council’s decision a “dereliction of duty.” He added, “These rogue council members SHOULD BE REMOVED.”
The Fort Myers City Council was voting on whether to allow its police department to participate in the 287(g) program, which would grant officers authority to identify, detain, and process individuals suspected of being in the country unlawfully. Supporters of the program argue that it enhances public safety and ensures compliance with state and federal laws. Opponents, including the three council members who voted against the measure—Darla Bonk, Terolyn Watson, and Diana Giraldo—cited concerns over racial profiling, strained community relations, and potential financial burdens.
Attorney General James Uthmeier confirmed that his office would investigate the council members for potentially violating Florida statutes. He stated, “The Fort Myers City Council’s vote to not approve the police department’s 287(g) agreement with ICE is very troubling. Preventing a local law enforcement agency from participating in certain federal immigration operations is unacceptable.” Uthmeier’s office is reviewing whether the vote contradicts Florida laws mandating cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
The vote has drawn significant attention from state officials, with some calling for the council members’ removal. Donalds asserted, “Every council member who voted to flagrantly violate federal and state law should lose their job.” Mayor Kevin Anderson, who supported the agreement, acknowledged the controversy but emphasized that the city must enforce immigration laws. He added that he expects the issue to be reconsidered in a future council meeting.
As the investigation unfolds, Fort Myers remains at the center of Florida’s broader immigration enforcement debate. With DeSantis, Donalds, and other state officials pushing for strict immigration policies, the outcome of this case could set a precedent for how local governments in Florida handle federal immigration enforcement mandates.
