Governor Ron DeSantis recently announced that Florida has made significant strides in immigration enforcement, with over 25,000 arrests of illegal immigrants since the expansion of the state’s 287(g) program in early 2025. This initiative, which was bolstered by legislation signed in February 2025, has positioned Florida as a leader in immigration enforcement efforts.

Operation Tidal Wave and Other Initiatives

Officials have emphasized Florida’s robust collaboration between local and state law enforcement and federal immigration authorities, facilitated by the increased number of 287(g) task force officers. This collaboration was particularly evident in Operation Tidal Wave, described as the largest immigration enforcement operation in federal history.

Anthony Coker, executive director of Florida’s State Board of Immigration Enforcement, stated, “Our state has taken decisive action to ensure that dangerous, criminal, illegal aliens are identified, arrested, and removed from our communities.” State troopers have been responsible for over 10,000 of the arrests, underscoring their critical role in these efforts.

Focused Operations for Community Safety

Among the operations highlighted were Sandhill Sentinel, Operation Locate, and Criminal Return. Sandhill Sentinel targeted repeat immigration violators and individuals accused of crimes such as drug trafficking and domestic violence. Operation Locate, led by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, focused on identifying or locating over 400 unaccompanied migrant children.

Coker further noted, “Gov. DeSantis has made it clear that Florida will not be a sanctuary for criminal activity because of these policies. Our communities are safer, our law enforcement officers are better supported, and our federal ICE and Border Patrol partners are better protected.” These enforcement operations are set to continue across the state, reinforcing Florida’s commitment to maintaining public safety.

Original reporting: WPBF West Palm Beach — read the source article.