Recent analysis reveals that agreements between local police departments and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have skyrocketed, with 1,168 agencies now participating in immigration enforcement efforts by the end of January, a dramatic increase from the 135 agencies registered during Biden’s administration and 150 during Trump’s first term. This surge is causing rising fears about the potential rupture between law enforcement and immigrant communities, undermining trust in public safety institutions.

As the Republican administration continues to criticize so-called sanctuary jurisdictions—cities or municipalities that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement—there's an ongoing tension between local law enforcement and immigrant populations. The agreements have sparked debates over public safety and community trust, as many immigrant advocates argue that local police involvement in ICE activities can deter individuals from reporting crimes and seeking assistance, fearing repercussions related to their immigration status.

Organizations like FWD.us, which pushes for comprehensive immigration reform and criminal justice, stress the need for policy changes that promote trust between communities and law enforcement. They warn that the increasing militarization of local police forces in immigration enforcement may lead to further alienation of immigrant communities, creating an environment of fear and suspicion that hampers community cooperation with police.