Monday, March 2, 2026

Three More Schuylkill County Agencies Sign Onto ICE 287(g) Program


Three additional law enforcement agencies in Schuylkill County have officially signed agreements to participate in the federal 287(g) program, according to updated data from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

The newly signed agencies include:

  • Mahanoy Township Police Department — signed February 17, 2026
  • Shenandoah Borough Police Department — signed February 25, 2026
  • Pine Grove Borough Police Department — signed February 27, 2026

These additions expand Schuylkill County’s participation in the 287(g) program.

Previously reported participating agencies included:

  • Mahanoy City Borough Police Department
  • Schuylkill County Sheriff’s Office

With the latest signings, a total of five Schuylkill County law enforcement agencies are now listed as participating in the federal partnership program.


What the 287(g) Program Does

The 287(g) program allows state and local law enforcement agencies to enter into formal Memorandums of Agreement (MOAs) with ICE. Under these agreements, designated officers receive federal training and may perform certain immigration enforcement functions under ICE oversight.

ICE operates multiple models under the program, including the Jail Enforcement Model and the Warrant Service Officer program, among others.


Nationwide Participation

As of mid-February, ICE reported more than 1,400 signed agreements across 40 states. The program has expanded following Executive Order 14159, signed in January 2025 by Donald Trump, directing ICE to authorize state and local participation to the maximum extent permitted by law.

ICE states the program enhances cooperation between federal immigration authorities and local law enforcement. Critics in some communities have raised concerns about the program’s impact on community relations and local resources.