Commissioner Wilton Simpson Announces All Sworn FDACS Agricultural Law Enforcement Officers Certified Under 287(g) Program

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Today, Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson announced that all sworn officers of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services' Office of Agricultural Law Enforcement (OALE) have officially become certified under the federal 287(g) program, further enhancing the department's ability to uphold the law and support public safety across the state.

"Florida is serious about law and order, and this certification is another step forward," said Commissioner Wilton Simpson. "As a member of the State Board of Immigration Enforcement, I've pushed for stronger coordination with our federal partners - and now our officers are even better equipped to take action when they encounter individuals breaking the law."

The 287(g) program, administered by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), enables specially trained local law enforcement officers to perform certain immigration enforcement functions as authorized by federal law. Through this training, Agricultural Law Enforcement officers gain the knowledge and authority to identify, process, and, when appropriate, detain individuals who violate federal immigration laws during the course of their regular duties.

"Florida's law enforcement community is stronger and more connected than ever," said OALE's Colonel Lee Adams. "This certification ensures our officers have the training, resources, and authority they need to act swiftly and in coordination with federal partners."

FDACS' Office of Agricultural Law Enforcement plays a statewide role in criminal interdiction and investigations, enforcing state and federal laws related to transportation, consumer protection, fraud, and public safety. OALE operates more than 20 agricultural interdiction stations around the state, serving as a first line of defense in protecting Florida agriculture. Officers conduct vehicle inspections 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to help prevent the introduction of agricultural pests and diseases, deter theft and trafficking, and ensure the integrity of Florida's food supply and consumer goods.

For more information about Commissioner Simpson and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, visit FDACS.gov.

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