Greenville, S.C., August 12, 2025
News Summary
U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham held a roundtable in Greenville, S.C., addressing the 287 (G) program that enhances collaboration between local law enforcement and ICE. The program focuses on deporting offenders while seeking increased funding for law enforcement agencies. Graham emphasized the initiative’s potential to increase public safety and tackle staffing shortages in law enforcement. This collaborative effort aims to combat gang activity and human trafficking in South Carolina through improved resource allocation and cooperation.
Greenville, S.C. – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham recently held a roundtable discussion focused on a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) initiative designed to enhance collaboration between state and local law enforcement and federal agencies in enforcing immigration laws. The meeting, which involved key stakeholders from various law enforcement agencies, aimed to address the challenges and opportunities presented by these cooperative efforts.
At the center of this initiative is the 287 (G) program, which allows local law enforcement agencies to partner with federal officials to enforce federal immigration laws. Sheriff Hobart Lewis of Greenville County was present at the roundtable and shared insights on the sheriff’s office’s involvement in the program for nearly a year. He emphasized that the focus of this program is to deport individuals who have committed crimes, rather than targeting law-abiding residents.
Senator Graham emphasized the importance of ensuring that the benefits of the 287 (G) program extend to both local agencies and federal authorities. He made a case for increasing funding for states that actively participate in the initiative. This call for additional resources includes proposals to utilize funds from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, recently signed into law by President Trump, aimed at enhancing recruitment and retention efforts within law enforcement agencies.
During the discussion, officials acknowledged the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in finding and retaining qualified personnel, a sentiment echoed by many in attendance. Senator Graham labeled the initiative as a “win-win” situation for cooperation between local law enforcement and federal government in addressing immigration matters. His overarching goal is to make South Carolina a less attractive destination for gangs and human traffickers through effective law enforcement practices.
The combination of federal support and local enforcement participation under the 287 (G) program is aimed at creating a safer environment in South Carolina. Senator Graham’s focus on collaboration and resource allocation comes at a critical time when law enforcement agencies nationwide are grappling with staffing shortages and increasing demands placed on their resources.
In summary, the roundtable in Greenville marked a significant step towards strengthening local and federal partnerships in immigration enforcement. Through the 287 (G) program and proposed financial support, the aim is to enhance public safety while addressing the practical issues of law enforcement staffing and resource allocation.
Background Context
The 287 (G) program was established as part of the Immigration and Nationality Act, allowing local law enforcement officers to be trained to enforce federal immigration laws. This initiative is especially pertinent in communities that face challenges related to crime and public safety. By allowing local agencies to engage in these efforts, the program aims to leverage local resources and expertise in addressing immigration issues collaboratively.
Senator Lindsey Graham has been an active proponent of immigration reform and law enforcement collaboration in South Carolina. The ongoing discussions surrounding the 287 (G) program reflect a broader strategy to enhance public safety and strengthen the ties between local and federal law enforcement agencies.
FAQ Section
What is the 287 (G) program?
The 287 (G) program allows local law enforcement agencies to enter into agreements with federal ICE officials to enforce federal immigration laws, focusing on deporting criminals rather than indiscriminately rounding up residents.
What was discussed in the roundtable led by Senator Graham?
Senator Graham discussed the importance of collaboration between local and federal law enforcement, the needs for increased funding for participants in the 287 (G) program, and strategies to address staffing shortages in law enforcement agencies.
What are the goals of the ICE initiative discussed in Greenville?
The main goals are to improve public safety, enhance cooperation between different levels of law enforcement, and effectively combat crime, particularly related to gangs and human trafficking, in South Carolina.
Key Features of the ICE Initiative
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| 287 (G) Program | Allows local agencies to partner with federal law enforcement in enforcing immigration laws. |
| Funding Proposal | Senator Graham proposes increased funding for states participating in the initiative. |
| Focus on Criminals | Target deportation of individuals who have committed crimes, not law-abiding residents. |
| Local and Federal Cooperation | Enhances collaboration between local law enforcement and federal agencies for improved public safety. |
| Addressing Staffing Issues | Aims to tackle the challenges of finding and retaining qualified law enforcement personnel. |
| Public Safety Goals | Aims to make South Carolina unattractive for gangs and human traffickers through enhanced law enforcement. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- WISTV: Live Senator Lindsey Graham Holds ICE Roundtable in Greenville
- Wikipedia: 287(g) Program
- Fox Carolina: Senator Lindsey Graham Speaks on ICE Initiative in Greenville
- Google Search: ICE Initiative
- WJBF: Senator Lindsey Graham Discusses ICE Initiative
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Immigration
- WYFF4: US Senator on Law Enforcement and Immigration
- Google News: Senator Lindsey Graham
Author: STAFF HERE GREENVILLE
The HERE Greenville Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Greenville community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Greenville Our team includes lifelong Greenville residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sales in the Heritage Historic District 17 , Greenville’s textile and railroad heritage 2 , and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Greenville Technical College programs) 27 . Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Greenville Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
