Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has made it clear: Sheriffs in the state must cooperate with federal immigration enforcement or face immediate removal from office. This decisive stance comes amid the continued push of Operation Tidal Wave, Florida’s ambitious crackdown on illegal immigration. DeSantis’s remarks serve as a stark warning to any local law enforcement that might resemble the lack of cooperation seen in places like Minneapolis.
With a strong declaration that “we REQUIRED all law enforcement to work with DHS,” DeSantis points to a significant accomplishment: over 20,000 illegal immigrant apprehensions. His words underscore a robust enforcement strategy that is gaining attention nationally. The operation aims to apprehend and deport criminal illegal aliens using a coordinated effort among various law enforcement agencies.
Operation Tidal Wave: A Groundbreaking Initiative
Launched in April 2025, Operation Tidal Wave is touted as the largest immigration enforcement initiative in the history of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This operation isn’t just about numbers; it’s a strategic alliance between state and federal agencies to target individuals unlawfully present in the state, particularly those with criminal backgrounds.
As of early 2026, more than 10,400 individuals have been arrested under this operation. Many of those caught were serious offenders, including gang members and sex offenders. This broad spectrum of apprehensions highlights the operation’s reach across different nationalities and criminal backgrounds—3,435 from Guatemala and 3,331 from Mexico, for example. Such statistics paint a clear picture of Florida’s commitment to stringent immigration enforcement.
Florida Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia echoes this resolve, stating, “Illegal immigrants should think twice before coming into our country and into our state, because if they are caught in Florida, they will be sent back home.” This rhetoric reinforces a tough stance on illegal immigration, creating an environment where individuals may reconsider their decisions to enter Florida unlawfully.
Collaboration Across Agencies
Operation Tidal Wave utilizes the 287(g) program, which permits local law enforcement to enforce federal immigration laws. Every county jail in Florida has signed agreements with ICE, enabling local officers to detain and serve immigration warrants. This statewide compliance ensures that all local enforcement is on the same page when addressing immigration issues.
Agencies like the Florida Division of Emergency Management and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement have joined forces with federal entities, including ICE and U.S. Customs and Border Protection, to enhance operational efficacy. FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass attributed this seamless collaboration to DeSantis’s leadership, asserting that the agencies remain committed to safeguarding communities.
Firm Stance Against Sanctuary Policies
DeSantis draws a sharp contrast between Florida and so-called sanctuary jurisdictions. His explicit warning to sheriffs unwilling to cooperate with federal enforcement is clear: “If ANY Florida sheriff acted like Jacob Frey on illegal aliens, you’d be REMOVED FROM OFFICE.” This position reflects his administration’s determination to ensure that cooperation with federal immigration policies is mandatory, not optional.
The passage of Senate Bill 2C strengthens this resolve. The bill compels local jails across Florida to actively engage in the 287(g) program and also created the State Immigration Enforcement Council, a platform for sheriffs and state officials to coordinate immigration strategies effectively. This proactive step reinforces the commitment to a unified approach throughout the state.
Documenting the Impact
The results of Operation Tidal Wave are telling. In a mere six-day period in April 2024, law enforcement arrested 1,120 illegal aliens, with about 63 percent possessing criminal records or open charges. High-profile gang members, including those affiliated with MS-13 and other violent organizations, were among those apprehended. ICE Deputy Director Madison Sheahan emphasized the importance of these numbers, stating that the apprehensions are crucial for public safety.
Sheriff T.K. Waters highlighted specific threats as well. In 2024, Jacksonville alone seized over 20 kilograms of fentanyl, contributing to a significant number of related deaths. Waters pointed out the vital role strong immigration enforcement plays in combating drug trafficking—a growing concern across many communities.
Addressing Serious Crimes Against Children
The operation also targets heinous crimes against children. Through Operation Dirtbag, more than 230 illegal aliens were arrested, over 150 of whom were sex offenders. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem emphasized the gravity of these crimes, stating, “I call this Operation Dirtbag because these individuals were not just sex offenders, they TARGETED CHILDREN.” This focus on protecting vulnerable populations adds another layer to Florida’s enforcement strategy.
Federal Support Enhancing Local Efforts
Florida’s enforcement efforts have received substantial backing from federal resources during President Donald Trump’s administration, totaling $28 million. This funding not only supports operations through local law enforcement but also enhances overall immigration enforcement strategies. Florida’s aggressive approach has positioned it as a leader in federal-local collaboration under the 287(g) program, showcasing measurable effectiveness in combating illegal immigration.
National Attention and Implications
DeSantis’s strategy has garnered national attention, with many viewing Florida’s approach as a potential roadmap for other states. In stark contrast to areas struggling with inconsistent enforcement and rising crime, Florida officials tout their success, measurable outcomes, and interagency cooperation. DeSantis’s remarks, “Florida is not Portland,” reinforce his castigation of sanctuary policies and send a clear signal regarding the level of accountability expected in Florida.
Florida’s cohesive model of immigration enforcement blends strong leadership with a firm legal framework. The implications for other states are significant, as they may look to Florida’s results as a blueprint for effective immigration control. As the need for stringent policies evolves, Florida stands as a clear example of what can be accomplished with unwavering commitment and decisive governance.
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