ATLANTA ~ In a move to further strengthen the state's efforts in combating illegal immigration, Georgia Governor Brian P. Kemp has directed the Department of Public Safety (DPS) Commissioner Billy Hitchens to request training for all 1,100 sworn officers under his command through the 287(g) Program. This program, authorized by the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act, allows for state and local law enforcement officers to perform specific immigration officer functions under the direction and oversight of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

The decision to implement this program comes after President Donald Trump's Executive Order entitled "Protecting the American People Against Invasion" in 2025, which requires ICE to utilize this program in partnership with state and local law enforcement. Governor Kemp stated, "If you are in our country illegally and committing crimes, you have no place in Georgia." He also expressed gratitude for having an administration that recognizes the seriousness of this issue and prioritizes keeping Americans safe by securing the border and cracking down on illegal immigration.

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This is not the first time Georgia has participated in the 287(g) program. The Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) has been involved through the Jail Enforcement Model since 2019, with ongoing agreements being renewed in 2019 and 2020. Recently, ICE reached out to GDC requesting two additional corrections officers to assist in deporting illegal criminal aliens as part of this agreement. Currently, GDC incarcerates approximately 1,730 criminals on ICE detainers who have been taken off the streets.

Participating in this program will enhance collaboration between state and local law enforcement agencies with ICE partners to protect the homeland by identifying and removing individuals who pose a public safety risk and undermine U.S. immigration laws. Colonel Hitchens submitted a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) request on behalf of DPS to participate in the Task Force Model (TFM) within the ICE 287(g) program. This agreement will create a network of knowledge and teamwork that will strengthen the ability of DPS to keep citizens across the state safe.

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Colonel Billy Hitchens emphasized the seriousness of this issue, stating, "We take the safety of Georgians and travelers to this state very seriously." He also highlighted the importance of collaboration between agencies in identifying threats and individuals who are not in the country legally. Through education and communication, law enforcement can better serve their communities and ultimately achieve their goal of keeping citizens safe.

As part of the 287(g) program, participating law enforcement officers will receive training from ICE and have increased ability to communicate with the federal agency about individuals encountered during their duties. The nominees for this program will receive training at no cost related to immigration duties outlined in the MOA. This partnership also provides troopers and officers with an additional tool to use during traffic stops, crash investigations, and commercial vehicle inspections throughout the state.

With Governor Kemp's direction and Colonel Hitchens' request for training under the 287(g) Program, Georgia is taking proactive measures to ensure public safety by cracking down on illegal immigration. This collaboration between state and federal agencies will strengthen efforts to identify and remove individuals who pose a threat to our communities.

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