NAMPA, Idaho — On Wednesday, Idaho State Police (ISP) Colonel Bill Gardiner and Lieutenant Colonel Fritz Zweigart held a meeting with the Executive Director of the Idaho Hispanic Foundation, Mari Ramos to discuss a recent agreement between ISP and the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, better known as ICE.
In their social media post, ISP thanked Ramos for hosting what they called "an open and honest conversation."
The post goes on to state that ISP is not conducting immigration raids.
However, ISP said it will assist ICE in transporting convicted persons living in the U.S. illegally to federal detention centers.
"Our role is strictly limited to transporting individuals who are in the U.S. illegally and have been convicted of a crime. After they have served their time, they will be taken to a federal detention center." - ISP
Watch to hear what the Idaho Hispanic Foundation Executive Director has to say:
Fear and confusion have spread through Idaho's Hispanic community following news of a partnership between state police and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
"There's some fear. There's immediate fear," said Idaho Hispanic Foundation Executive Director Mari Ramos.
Ramos says the news spread quickly among the Hispanic community in Canyon County, sparking immediate concerns and phone calls.
"If what is going to happen, are my family and friends safe? Am I safe?" said Ramos.
The 287-G program allows state and local law enforcement to partner with ICE to enforce certain aspects of federal immigration law.
Ramos encourages everyone to educate themselves on what's really happening, which is why I sat down with state leaders this week. I learned the agreement between state police and immigration enforcement only applies to transporting immigrants from jails.
"And when there is fear, I've actually found what helps is actual knowledge and actual conversations and finding out what is the reality," said Ramos.
Ramos worries the confusion could hurt local businesses and erode trust in local law enforcement.
"And when these rumors start, people start not wanting to go out, not going to restaurants, not wanting to buy the things that they need for everyday life," said Ramos.
Governor Little approved up to $300,000 from the emergency fund for ICE to transport what he called "dangerous illegal alien criminals" out of Idaho jails.
Ramos says officials confirmed the agreement only affects those serving jail time.
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