In a notable collaboration between the Department of Homeland Security and Alabama’s state police, more than 20 individuals were detained during recent checkpoint operations.
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey informed Fox News Digital that she instructed the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) and other state agencies to “work closely with ICE to catch criminal illegals.”
Ivey commended ALEA for a significant operation in Russellville, which resulted in the detention of at least 20 people.
ALEA confirmed to Fox News Digital that this operation involved state troopers conducting driver’s license checkpoints in Franklin and Colbert counties, with ICE agents present.
Governor Ivey remarked, “Driver license checkpoints occur all over the state and are one of the ways we stop criminals in their tracks, and now, we include ICE agents in these efforts.” She emphasized that criminal illegal immigrants are not welcome in Alabama and that her administration will utilize every available tool to ensure the safety of residents and visitors.
Senator Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., expressed his approval of ALEA’s collaboration with ICE, stating, “When 77 million Americans voted for President Trump, they sent a clear message: they want mass deportations – and they want them now.” Tuberville, who is seeking to succeed Ivey next year, hopes other states will adopt similar strategies to enhance public safety and crack down on illegal immigration.
Alabama House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter also supported the efforts of Ivey and ALEA, criticizing other states where leaders prioritize criminals over law-abiding citizens. He stated, “I expect this state and federal partnership to continue yielding positive results.”
In addition, Birmingham immigration attorney Brett Pouncey noted that several communities are collaborating with ICE to establish license-checking “roadblocks,” based on reports from his clients.
Russellville community organizer Evelyn Servin expressed concerns about potential racial profiling and detentions resulting from police cooperation with federal authorities.
Previously, ICE conducted two dozen arrests in Baldwin County, known for its popular beach towns, with operations taking place in Loxley and Spanish Fort.
In response, one immigration advocate suggested that immigrants write phone numbers on their bodies to contact family members if detained by ICE, according to AL.com.
Fox News Digital has reached out to the Department of Homeland Security for additional comments and data.
