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Polk County Admits Wrongful ICE Detainer on Native American U.S. Citizen

Officials attribute the incident to a 287(g) clerical mistake following relatives' proof of U.S. birth.

Overview

  • Leticia Jacobo, 24, a member of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, was held past her release at the Polk County Jail after an ICE detainer was mistakenly applied to her.
  • A sheriff's spokesman said the detainer had been intended for another inmate and was wrongly assigned to Jacobo's records.
  • Jacobo was scheduled for release on November 11 and was not transferred after family members delivered her birth certificate and sought help from tribal leaders.
  • Polk County participates in the 287(g) program, which allows trained local officers to issue ICE detainers that can extend custody for up to 48 hours.
  • The sheriff's office called it human error and said command staff would review supervisors, while Jacobo's family alleges discrimination and is considering legal action; DHS has been asked for comment.