Florida Boosts Farm Law Enforcement with Federal Certification

FDACS Officers Certified Under ICE 287g Immigration Program

Florida’s agricultural law enforcement officers have taken a major step forward in public safety by becoming fully certified under the federal 287(g) program.

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) confirmed that all sworn officers in its Office of Agricultural Law Enforcement (OALE) are now trained for immigration enforcement duties.

Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson praised this development as a key advancement for state law enforcement. “Florida is serious about law and order, and this certification is another step forward,” said Commissioner Wilton Simpson.

“As a member of the State Board of Immigration Enforcement, I’ve pushed for stronger coordination with our federal partners — and now our officers are even better equipped to take action when they encounter individuals breaking the law.”

The 287(g) program, managed by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), allows trained local officers to perform certain immigration enforcement tasks within the limits of federal law. With this new authority, FDACS officers can identify, process, and detain individuals breaking immigration laws.

Colonel Lee Adams of the OALE stressed that the certification strengthens law enforcement coordination statewide. OALE’s officers protect Florida’s agriculture by monitoring over 20 interdiction stations that operate around the clock.

These officers inspect vehicles, prevent the introduction of harmful pests and diseases, deter theft, and safeguard Florida’s food and agricultural products.

This federal certification enhances the scope of Florida’s agricultural law enforcement, enabling officers to serve as a frontline defense for both public safety and agricultural integrity.

Florida continues to lead in building stronger ties between local and federal agencies to ensure effective law enforcement and agricultural protection. To learn more about FDACS and its work, visit FDACS.gov.