Funding Fuels Surge of Local Cops Joining ICE Operations

An NBC News analysis finds local police agencies trained to assist ICE surged 950% in Trump’s second term, reaching 1,168 by Jan. 26, with Florida (342), Texas (296), Tennessee (63), Pennsylvania (58), and Alabama (52) leading. The program—revived in 2025—offers incentives such as about $7,500 per officer for equipment, up to $100,000 per new vehicle, and overtime pay up to 25% of salary, potentially generating $1.4–$2 billion in federal funding this year. Some departments have declined to participate (e.g., Dallas; Montgomery County MD), while New Orleans’ governor directed state agencies to assist in federal immigration operations. Critics warn of community fear and negative effects on schooling and health care as more local officers gain immigration-arrest authority, though ICE stresses partnerships to protect the homeland.