Albany, NY – New York sheriffs are sounding the alarm over Governor Kathy Hochul's proposed ban on local cooperation agreements with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), arguing that the move prioritizes sanctuary policies over the safety and security of New York residents.

The proposal, included in Hochul's 2027 fiscal budget, seeks to end 287(g) agreements, limit ICE's access to schools, hospitals, and churches, and restrict informal cooperation. Critics argue that these measures will hinder law enforcement's ability to remove criminal illegal immigrants from the community, endangering public safety.

"This is a dangerous and misguided policy that puts the safety of New Yorkers at risk," said Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman. "By restricting cooperation with ICE, Governor Hochul is essentially creating a sanctuary state for criminals."

The 287(g) agreements allow local law enforcement to notify ICE when they arrest an individual who is in the country illegally, enabling ICE to take custody of the individual directly from the local jail. Sheriffs argue that this is an efficient and effective way to remove dangerous individuals from the community.

"These are not just undocumented individuals; these are criminals who have been arrested for other offenses," said Madison County Sheriff Todd Hood. "By preventing us from working with ICE, Governor Hochul is allowing these criminals to be released back into our communities to potentially commit more crimes."

Opponents of the ban also point to the potential for increased costs and burdens on local law enforcement. Without the ability to cooperate with ICE, local agencies may be forced to expend additional resources to track and apprehend illegal immigrants who pose a threat to public safety.

The debate over immigration enforcement has intensified in recent years, with conservatives arguing that strong border security and strict enforcement of immigration laws are essential for national security and public safety. They warn that sanctuary policies undermine these efforts and create a magnet for illegal immigration.

"Governor Hochul is pandering to the radical left at the expense of the safety and security of New Yorkers," said a spokesperson for the New York Conservative Party. "Her policies are a slap in the face to law enforcement and a betrayal of the public trust."

The potential legal action threatened by Blakeman and other sheriffs underscores the deep divisions over immigration policy in New York. The outcome of this battle will have significant implications for the state's ability to enforce immigration laws and protect its citizens.

Those who advocate for secure borders, like Sheriff Hood, believe that cooperation with federal authorities is not only lawful but also morally responsible for maintaining law and order within their communities.

The proposed policy ignores the fact that an essential function of government is to protect the lives and property of its citizens, and that requires diligent cooperation with all levels of law enforcement.