Arp Police Signs 287(g) ICE Pact; Smith Co. Eyes Deal

**Arp Police Department Activates Federal Immigration Enforcement Partnership with ICE**

ARP, Smith County – The Arp Police Department officially activated a 287(g) agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on November 17, 2025, empowering Arp officers to act as federal immigration agents within their jurisdiction.

This partnership, part of the ICE 287(g) program (further information available at https://www.ice.gov/287g), grants designated Arp officers the authority to screen individuals at the Smith County Jail, issue immigration detainers, and initiate deportation proceedings. The department has stated its primary focus for this expanded authority is to target individuals involved in drug trafficking, human smuggling, and gang activity.

Under the terms of the agreement, the Arp Police Department will also assume responsibility for transporting individuals subject to immigration proceedings to designated ICE processing centers.

The Arp Police Department's new role comes as other local entities consider similar arrangements. Smith County Commissioners recently explored a proposal for a partnership that would involve the Precinct 3 Constable's Office, deliberating on the feasibility of expanding federal immigration enforcement capabilities further within Smith County. The outcome of those discussions is pending.