The American Border Story slams Maryland governor for barring police cooperation agreements with ICE

The American Border Story on Friday criticized Maryland Democrat Gov. Wes Moore for signing a bill into law that bars police cooperation agreements with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Moore signed the bill on Tuesday. The legislation does not preclude isolated instances of cooperation, but requires the termination of any formal arrangements by July. It also does not prevent local law enforcement from turning over illegal immigrants in government custody to ICE.

“Governor Moore’s decision to outlaw 287(g) agreements is an intentional weakening of the very tools that help law enforcement remove criminal illegal aliens from our communities,” TABS, a self-described national initiative giving voice to victims, law enforcement, and families impacted by weak U.S. border policies, said in a statement on Friday. 

“These partnerships have enabled local officers to identify and transfer thousands of criminal foreign nationals to federal custody. By eliminating them, Governor Moore is deliberately tying the hands of law enforcement and shielding dangerous offenders from accountability.

“We previously warned that this legislation would send a dangerous message to criminal illegal aliens and transnational gangs that Maryland is open for business. But instead of heeding our warning and protecting Maryland communities, Governor Moore has chosen to side with the most extreme radicals in his party. This law will make American families less safe and embolden criminal networks,” the statement continued.

“The American Border Story stands unwaveringly with law enforcement officers and communities demanding real border security and public safety. We call on Maryland’s elected officials to reverse this misguided action before the consequences are irreversible.”