ROGERS, Ark. — The partnership between Benton County sheriff's deputies and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has resulted in over 450 immigration-related arrests in Northwest Arkansas this year, intensifying fears among local immigrant communities.
Benton County's cooperation with ICE under the 287(g) program has led to a daily average of 1.5 arrests from a population of about 300,000. This agreement allows law enforcement to determine the immigration status of incarcerated individuals, often leading to their transfer into ICE custody.
While half of those arrested had prior criminal convictions, the offenses ranged widely from forgery to driving violations, raising concerns that the program promotes uneven accountability in criminal justice.
Local residents, particularly immigrants from Latin American countries, express chronic fear of racial profiling and heightened scrutiny from law enforcement. Many have changed their daily routines, avoiding driving and public outings, turning their homes into places of isolation.
For instance, 35-year-old Cristina Osornio faced detention merely for minor driving infractions, despite being a legal resident. Her husband faced deportation after being arrested for a domestic violence charge, leaving their family in emotional and financial distress.
As the 287(g) program grows nationally, with over 1,180 agreements in place, communities like Benton County face tough decisions about the balance between immigration control and the rights of individuals.
