Photo: EVA MARIE UZCATEGUI / AFP / Getty Images
(Fort Lauderdale, FL) - Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier is warning Broward County's sheriff about seemingly refusing to cooperate with federal immigration officials.
AG Uthmeier recently sent Sheriff Gregory Tony a letter asking for clarification in response to comments Tony made last week at a meeting with county commissioners.
Tony said, "immigration is not one of his agency's priorities." Adding that arresting illegal immigrants is not within his department's purview and he will not participate.
Uthmeier writes that Tony is obligated to work with ICE agents as they enforce federal immigration laws, and he wants Tony to clarify his comments.
Uthmeier also seems to threaten Tony with removal from office if he doesn't participate in federal immigration operations.
Tony responded with his own letter writing "The BSO will continue to comply with Florida law regarding immigration enforcement."
Uthmeier says, "My office is watching and will use every tool at its disposal to enforce Florida law to keep the state safe."