Title
Consider and take action on a resolution authorizing participation in the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) 287(g) Warrant Service Officer and Task Force model programs (Mayor Long)
Background:
Approval of this item will authorize the League City Police Department to participate in the federal 287(g) program in partnership with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
The program grants limited immigration enforcement authority to specially trained local officers. Two models are proposed for League City:
• Warrant Service Officer (WSO) Model - Trains select detention staff to serve immigration administrative arrest warrants for individuals already subject to ICE detainers in the City’s jail. This provides stronger legal authority during the standard 48-hour detainer period and reduces the need for ICE agents to respond in person.
• Task Force Model - Trains a small number of detectives in the Criminal Investigations Bureau to apply immigration enforcement powers in long-term investigations of organized criminal activity (e.g., burglary rings, fraud, human trafficking). This model would not typically be used in routine patrol enforcement.
Program participation is limited to jail detainers and organized criminal cases involving foreign nationals, not general immigration enforcement.
Training requirements are estimated at 40 hours per officer with refresher training every two years. The cost is limited to staff time, which can be absorbed within existing resources. No additional FTEs are required. While no reimbursement is available in FY26, future grant opportunities through Operation Lone Star may help offset costs beginning in FY27.
Approval of this resolution will provide the Police Department with an additional tool to address transnational criminal organizations operating in League City, improve coordination with federal partners, and ensure the City is positioned to pursue funding when it becomes available.
Attachments:
1. Proposed Resolution
FUNDING
{X} NOT APPLICABLE
STRATEGIC PLANNING
{X} Addresses Strategic Planning Critical Success Factor #3 Safe and Desirable Community