El Paso Standard

A recent collaboration between U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Frederick County Sheriff's Office has led to the successful apprehension of two criminal aliens following a high-speed chase in Frederick County, Maryland. This operation was conducted under the 287(g) Program, which allows ICE to work with local law enforcement to identify and detain individuals who are in the country illegally.

"This case is a clear example of how collaboration with local jurisdictions enhances public safety by ensuring that dangerous individuals are properly identified and not released back into our communities," stated ICE Baltimore acting Field Office Director Matthew Elliston. He highlighted the importance of partnerships like that with Sheriff Chuck Jenkins of Frederick County, emphasizing their role in prioritizing the removal of serious offenders.

The incident began at approximately 9:20 PM on February 20 when Deputy First Class Roush observed suspicious behavior from a white Nissan van near Route 85 and Grove Road. After receiving an alert that the vehicle was stolen, a pursuit ensued, reaching speeds of up to 100 mph through Frederick and Montgomery counties. The chase involved assistance from Maryland State Police Aviation and ended with the arrest of four suspects at a Sheetz store located at 751 Progress Way.

Upon searching the suspect's vehicle, deputies found crack cocaine, fentanyl, and drug paraphernalia. Two occupants in another vehicle were injured after being rammed by the stolen van during the pursuit.

Sheriff Jenkins noted that "two of the four suspects taken into custody were found to be in the United States illegally through our 287(g) Program during the central booking process." These individuals were held due to ICE detainers placed by trained correctional officers under this program.

ICE recognizes its relationship with state and local law enforcement as vital for national security and public safety missions. Despite varying levels of cooperation from different jurisdictions, programs like 287(g) continue to play a critical role in maintaining community safety.

The public is encouraged to report crimes or suspicious activities by contacting ICE via phone or an online tip form.