Georgia Governor Brian P. Kemp announced new measures to hold “criminal illegals” accountable, asserting they have “no place” in the state and emphasizing efforts to keep communities “safe.” He made this statement in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, on March 17, 2025.
“If you are in our country illegally and committing crimes, you have no place in Georgia,” said P. Kemp. “Today, we’re announcing the latest steps we’re taking to hold criminal illegals accountable and to keep our communities safe.”
According to Kemp, the Georgia Department of Public Safety (DPS) will enroll all 1,100 sworn officers in the 287(g) program. This federal initiative allows U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to delegate immigration enforcement functions to state and local officers. The Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) already participates through the Jail Enforcement Model, having renewed agreements in 2019 and 2020. Recently, ICE requested additional GDC officers to assist in deportations. The state currently holds about 1,730 criminals on ICE detainers.
The DPS has also requested to join the Task Force Model of the 287(g) program to expand collaboration with ICE for enhanced public safety. Officers selected for this model receive ICE-funded training and improved communication with federal immigration authorities, aiding enforcement during traffic stops and inspections.
“This is another commonsense measure on top of those we’ve taken since I first took office to further enable hardworking law enforcement to assist in identifying and apprehending illegal aliens who pose a risk to public safety,” Kemp said. He expressed gratitude for having an administration that prioritizes securing the border and addressing illegal immigration.
Governor Kemp is serving as the 83rd Governor of Georgia since taking office in 2019. A native of Athens, Georgia, he began his career as a small business owner over three decades ago. During his tenure, according to his website, Georgia experienced significant economic growth with record-breaking job creation and investments. As the first state to reopen its economy during the COVID-19 pandemic, Georgia maintained low unemployment rates and continued recognition as a top state for business. Re-elected in 2022, Kemp has focused on addressing inflation, public safety, education, and tax cuts.
