Great Lakes Wire

Aric Nesbitt, a Senator from Michigan, has advocated for other departments to emulate the Metro Police Authority by signing cooperation agreements with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to prioritize public safety. "The statement was made on X."

"The Metro Police Authority is leading the way becoming the first Mid Michigan agency to sign a cooperation agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement," said Aric Young Nesbitt, State Senator for Michigan. "Thank you for choosing public safety over politics. ALL departments should be signing this agreement."

According to Bridge Michigan, the cooperation between Michigan police agencies and ICE has become a topic of debate. Some departments have formalized agreements to assist ICE, while others are hesitant due to concerns about community trust. Critics argue that close cooperation may deter immigrant communities from reporting crimes or cooperating with law enforcement.

The American Immigration Council notes that fewer than ten Michigan police departments had signed formal 287(g) cooperation agreements with ICE as of 2023. This represents only a small percentage of the state’s law enforcement agencies and highlights the ongoing debate about their use.

Nationally, the Migration Policy Institute reports that over 140 local law enforcement agencies across the United States maintain 287(g) agreements with ICE. However, this number has decreased in recent years due to shifting policies, legal challenges, and local opposition.

Nesbitt is currently serving as Michigan Senate Majority Leader and has previously served in both legislative chambers. According to Ballotpedia, his policy focus includes public safety, fiscal conservatism, and supporting law enforcement partnerships with federal agencies.