Florida's Attorney General, James Uthmeier, has issued a stern warning to Broward County Sheriff Gregory Tony following his public statement that immigration is not a priority for his department. Through an official letter, Uthmeier reminded Tony of his legal obligation under Florida law to cooperate with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and enforce federal immigration policies.
The letter, dated this Monday, emphasized the sheriff's duty to collaborate with federal authorities in enforcing immigration laws. "Supporting ICE and enforcing federal immigration law is not a choice; it is a duty according to Florida law. Those who fail to comply will face consequences," warned the attorney general.
Roots of the Dispute
Uthmeier's response was triggered by remarks from Sheriff Tony during a Broward County Commission meeting on June 3. During the meeting, Tony made it clear that immigration does not top his office's agenda. "Our focus is on other priorities within this community, and immigration is not among them," he stated. "While not diminishing its importance, we've had case after case in recent months highlighting why we, as law enforcement, must focus on criminal, not administrative, immigration components," he added.
Tony was even more explicit in rejecting any actions involving raids or persecution of non-violent immigrants: "I don't care what country you're from; if you commit a crime here or in this county, I'll pursue you. However, I refuse to embrace the notion that we must go door to door, arrest children, enter daycares or restaurants, and abduct people who have been paying taxes and positively contributing to this society, regardless of their citizenship status. It's not within our jurisdiction, and it's not our responsibility, and I will not participate."
Attorney General's Reaction
The attorney general interpreted these statements as a potential breach of state law, particularly Florida Statute 908.104(1), which mandates local law enforcement agencies to "do everything possible" to collaborate with federal immigration authorities. "I would hope your comments were mere political positions, but if not, they would constitute a failure to fulfill your legal obligation to do everything possible to support the enforcement of federal immigration law," Uthmeier wrote. "Your statements to the contrary suggest you either misunderstand or intend to disregard these Florida law requirements," he added.
He also warned that non-compliance could lead to severe repercussions, such as "injunctive and declaratory relief, contempt, or removal from office by the Governor." Uthmeier cited recent crimes involving undocumented immigrants in Broward County, including a March 2025 case where Carlos José Abreau, a Dominican citizen, was convicted of voter fraud and weapon possession. He also referenced a human trafficking incident in December 2024 involving 11 Chinese nationals near Fort Lauderdale, and the arrest of a Brazilian citizen in fall 2024, charged with sexual assault in Deerfield Beach.
"Given these realities, I am unclear why 'immigration' would not be one of your priorities," Uthmeier concluded.
Sheriff Tony Stands Firm on His Record
In a response letter sent the same day, Sheriff Tony defended his track record and reiterated his commitment to Florida law. "Let me assure you, as Broward County sheriff, I appreciate and understand my responsibilities under Florida law concerning immigration enforcement," he replied. "BSO's priority is addressing criminal activity within our community, including offenses committed by undocumented immigrants," he added.
Tony elaborated that since his 2019 appointment, the Broward Sheriff's Office (BSO) has maintained an active relationship with ICE and other federal agencies. "BSO's priority is addressing criminal activity in our community, including offenses by unauthorized foreign nationals, and collaborating with our federal partners in this effort," he explained. "BSO not only enforces the law against unauthorized foreigners committing crimes in the community; it leads in this initiative," he emphasized.
Moreover, he noted his office has housed federal detainees and assisted in apprehending violent undocumented individuals, clearly showing cooperation with ICE. "I trust this response provides a better perspective and understanding of my commitment to upholding Florida law and fighting crime in our community," Tony concluded. The attorney general's letter was also sent to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, though there has been no official response from his office yet.
This controversy arises amid increased pressure on local authorities in Florida to strengthen the enforcement of state immigration law, especially after the DeSantis administration's enactment of stricter regulations.
Understanding the Legal Obligations in Florida's Immigration Enforcement
What are Florida's legal requirements for local law enforcement regarding immigration?
Florida law requires local law enforcement agencies to cooperate fully with federal immigration authorities, including ICE, in enforcing immigration laws. This is outlined in Florida Statute 908.104(1).
Why did the Attorney General issue a warning to Sheriff Tony?
The Attorney General warned Sheriff Tony because his public statements suggested a lack of priority for immigration enforcement, which could be seen as a potential violation of Florida's legal obligations for law enforcement cooperation with federal immigration policies.
How has Sheriff Tony responded to the Attorney General's warning?
Sheriff Tony defended his record and reaffirmed his commitment to Florida law, emphasizing that his office prioritizes addressing criminal activity, including offenses by undocumented immigrants, and maintains active cooperation with federal agencies like ICE.