OALE Officers Gain Authority to Enforce Federal Immigration Laws Through Specialized Training
In a move to bolster law enforcement capabilities across the state, Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson today announced that all sworn officers of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ (FDACS) Office of Agricultural Law Enforcement (OALE) have officially achieved certification under the federal 287(g) program.
This certification empowers OALE officers with enhanced authority to enforce federal immigration laws.
“Florida is serious about law and order, and this certification is another step forward,” stated Commissioner Wilton Simpson. As a member of the State Board of Immigration Enforcement, Commissioner Simpson highlighted his consistent advocacy for stronger collaboration with federal agencies. “Now our officers are even better equipped to take action when they encounter individuals breaking the law.”
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Administered by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the 287(g) program provides specialized training to local law enforcement officers, authorizing them to perform specific immigration enforcement functions under federal law. This training equips OALE officers with the knowledge and authority to identify, process, and, when appropriate, detain individuals who violate federal immigration laws during the course of their regular duties.
Colonel Lee Adams of OALE emphasized the strengthening of the state’s law enforcement network. “Florida’s law enforcement community is stronger and more connected than ever,” said Colonel Adams. “This certification ensures our officers have the training, resources, and authority they need to act swiftly and in coordination with federal partners.”
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FDACS’ Office of Agricultural Law Enforcement plays a crucial statewide role in criminal interdiction and investigations. Their mandate includes enforcing state and federal laws pertaining to transportation, consumer protection, fraud, and public safety.
OALE operates more than 20 agricultural interdiction stations throughout Florida, serving as a primary defense line for the state’s agricultural industry.
Officers conduct round-the-clock vehicle inspections to prevent the introduction of agricultural pests and diseases, deter theft and trafficking, and safeguard the integrity of Florida’s food supply and consumer goods. The integration of 287(g) certification is expected to further enhance their ability to carry out these critical functions.
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