Key Takeaways

• Marathon County Sheriff signed an agreement to join the 287(g) program.
• Under this deal, jail staff can check inmates’ immigration status.
• Critics warn it may lead to racial profiling and weaken community trust.
• Immigrant groups say the sheriff should seek public input and reverse course.
• The decision affects local safety, as some residents may avoid reporting crimes.

Marathon County and the 287(g) Program

Marathon County Sheriff Chad Billeb signed an agreement with ICE on Tuesday. This deal lets jail staff question people about their immigration status. It also allows the county to detain non-citizens for up to 48 hours. After that, federal agents must collect them. Billeb said his goal is to follow federal law. Many community members and advocates disagree. They worry this move could harm trust and safety. Moreover, they feel the sheriff did not involve the public in the decision.

What is the 287(g) Program?

The 287(g) program began in 1996. It lets local law officers work with Immigration and Customs Enforcement. For example, jail staff can ask about someone’s country of origin. Then they can hold non-citizens for up to two days. During that time, federal agents can take custody. Many counties use the 287(g) program to detain migrants. Since President Trump took office, ICE has pushed to grow the program. So far this year, five sheriff’s offices in Wisconsin have joined. Advocates say the program often leads to unfair stops and holds.

How Marathon County Joined the 287(g) Program

After President Trump’s inauguration, ICE pushed to expand its partnerships. On Tuesday, Marathon County signed the 287(g) program agreement. This step makes them the fifth sheriff’s department in Wisconsin to enroll this year. Earlier, nine counties already had pacts with ICE. The Palmyra police department also signed an agreement. Additionally, Dodge County holds migrants under a separate ICE contract. That deal even moves migrants to out-of-state facilities. For instance, some go to a processing center in Broadview, Illinois. Sheriff Billeb said he wants to support federal law and ensure jail safety. Yet critics say the county did not explain these plans to local leaders first.

Why Leaders Oppose the 287(g) Program

Critics call the 287(g) program a threat. The ACLU of Wisconsin says it turns local police into an arm of ICE. They warn this shift can lead to racial profiling. Also, they point out that the program may violate people’s rights. The ACLU adds that fair policing makes communities safer. When law officers serve doubling roles, trust can break. As a result, victims may not report crimes. Furthermore, immigrant families could fear social services. Voces de la Frontera says Sheriff Billeb should have asked the public first. They noted no town halls or official votes took place. Christine Neumann-Ortiz, the group’s leader, urged a transparent debate. She added that the sheriff can still reverse the order. Without local support, new policies can cause harm. This lack of dialogue could leave families in fear. In addition, critics fear the jail may detain U.S. citizens by mistake. They point to past cases of wrongful holds. For all these reasons, local groups stand ready to act.

What Could Happen Next?

Now that Marathon County has joined the 287(g) program, some changes may follow. The sheriff could start new training for jail staff. Also, ICE agents may visit the county jail more often. This could change how inmates feel and act. Next, community leaders might demand public meetings. They may push for votes or legal action. Meanwhile, the county board could review the agreement. If they find issues, they can ask ICE to leave. Finally, residents may watch for more details. They will want to know how safety and trust evolve.

Conclusion

Marathon County’s move into the 287(g) program has sparked a large debate. It puts local law officers in a new immigration role. Many worry about bias, fear, and broken trust. Others believe it will help enforce federal laws fairly. Still, critics ask the sheriff to slow down. They want open forums and a chance to speak. Ultimately, this issue shows how local choices affect community safety. As the story unfolds, people will watch for clear answers. They will look for ways to keep families safe and secure basic rights.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the 287(g) program affect jail operations?

Under the agreement, county jail staff can ask inmates about their immigration status. They may hold non-citizens up to 48 hours. During that time, ICE agents can pick them up. The program also requires special training for jail staff.

What rights do inmates have under this agreement?

Inmates retain the right to legal counsel and due process. They can challenge holds in court. Non-citizens can ask for immigration hearings. U.S. citizens wrongfully held must be released once citizenship is confirmed.

Can Marathon County reverse its 287(g) program agreement?

Yes. The sheriff or county board can seek to end the deal. They must give ICE formal notice. Community pressure and legal reviews could spark a rollback. It often takes a few months to cancel an agreement.

How can community members share their views?

Residents can attend county board meetings and public forums. They may write letters to the sheriff’s office. They can join local advocacy groups for immigrants. Public comments and peaceful protests also raise awareness.