Fort Myers Faces State Investigation Over ICE Agreement Rejection

Florida officials claim the city council's deadlocked vote violates state law mandating local cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.

The Fort Myers City Council rejected a 287(g) agreement with ICE in a 3-3 vote, blocking police collaboration on federal immigration enforcement.
Governor Ron DeSantis and Attorney General James Uthmeier announced an investigation, citing potential violations of Florida law requiring local compliance with federal immigration policies.
Congressman Byron Donalds called for the removal of council members who opposed the agreement, accusing them of disregarding state and federal laws.
Council members Darla Bonk and Diana Giraldo expressed emotional and ethical concerns about the program, with Giraldo highlighting her perspective as an immigrant.
The decision has intensified debates over state versus local authority, public safety, and the role of immigration enforcement in Florida communities.