Minnesota Counties Weigh Financial Incentives as ICE partnerships Expand
ST. PAUL, MN – Seven of Minnesota’s 87 counties – Cass, Crow Wing, Freeborn, Itasca, jackson, Kandiyohi, and Mille Lacs – have agreed to collaborate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE),a move driven largely by potential financial reimbursement and a desire to avoid legal challenges. The partnerships come as ICE seeks to expand detention capacity nationwide, including potentially reopening a privately owned, shuttered facility in Appleton, Minnesota.
ICE Deputy Director Madison Sheahan stated that partnering with ICE provides “access to these unprecedented reimbursement opportunities” and contributes to “a national effort to ensure the safety of every American family.” While the exact reimbursement amounts vary based on factors like the length of detention and associated costs, the financial incentive is a key consideration for cash-strapped rural counties.
Though, interviews with two sheriffs who agreed to the partnership revealed a primary motivation beyond revenue. They cited concerns over potential lawsuits stemming from holding individuals for ICE after criminal proceedings conclude. Refusing ICE detainer requests, conversely, risks being labeled a “sanctuary” jurisdiction – a designation that drew criticism from the Trump management.
“It doesn’t matter where it is. All public safety is struggling to keep people right now,” said Jim Mortenson, executive director of Law Enforcement Labor Services, which negotiates union contracts for police and sheriffs’ deputies, highlighting broader staffing challenges within law enforcement.
Most of the sheriffs involved did not respond to requests for comment. the expansion of ICE partnerships in minnesota reflects a national trend as the agency seeks to bolster its detention capabilities.
