Florida’s Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) has announced that all sworn officers in its Office of Agricultural Law Enforcement (OALE) are now certified under the federal 287(g) program. This certification aims to enhance the department’s law enforcement capabilities across the state.
Commissioner Wilton Simpson said, “Florida is serious about law and order, and this certification is another step forward.” He emphasized his role on the State Board of Immigration Enforcement and the importance of coordination with federal partners. The 287(g) program, managed by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), allows trained local officers to perform certain immigration enforcement tasks authorized by federal law.
Colonel Lee Adams from OALE commented, “This certification ensures our officers have the training, resources, and authority they need to act swiftly and in coordination with federal partners.” The OALE is involved in criminal interdiction and investigations statewide, enforcing laws related to transportation, consumer protection, fraud, and public safety.
The office operates over 20 agricultural interdiction stations throughout Florida. These stations function around the clock to prevent agricultural pests and diseases, deter theft and trafficking, and maintain the integrity of Florida’s food supply.
For further details about Commissioner Simpson or FDACS, visit FDACS.gov.
Information from this article can be found here.
