Post Falls Police Join Federal Immigration Enforcement Program

POST FALLS, Idaho — The Post Falls Police Department has entered into a formal agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to participate in the 287(g) program, making Post Falls the first city municipality in Idaho to join the federal immigration enforcement initiative.

Under Section 287(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, trained local law enforcement officers can perform specific immigration enforcement functions under ICE supervision. These functions include identifying noncitizens with criminal charges or convictions during routine operations, serving administrative warrants in jails, and facilitating the transfer of individuals to federal custody.

“Public safety is our top priority in Post Falls,” said Chief Mark Brantl. “By participating in the 287(g) program, our officers will gain additional tools to address serious criminal activity linked to immigration violations.”

As part of the program’s onboarding and training process, ICE agents accompanied select Post Falls Police Department officers during patrol operations from August 24th through August 28th. During this five-day training period, officers made 13 arrests of individuals identified as having violated federal immigration law. In the week following the training, officers made two additional immigration violation arrests during the normal course of their duties. In total, the Post Falls Police Department has made 15 arrests since joining the 287(g) program approximately two months ago.

Post Falls Mayor Randy Westlund expressed support for the partnership. “We are proud to continue our partnership with federal law enforcement to keep our city safe and we reiterate our commitment to enforcing the law. This partnership advances these goals and strengthens our community.”

The Post Falls Police Department said it remains committed to transparent and lawful policing that respects the rights of all individuals while prioritizing the removal of criminal threats.