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Judge Blocks Pinal County Attorney’s ICE Partnership Over Lack of Authority

The decision reinforces that Arizona law limits who can sign 287(g) immigration agreements.

Overview

  • Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Michael Gordon ruled Friday that Pinal County Attorney Brad Miller exceeded his authority by entering a 287(g) deal with ICE.
  • The court denied Miller’s bid to dismiss the case and issued a permanent injunction that bars his office from carrying out the agreement.
  • Miller’s attorney asked for a stay after Friday’s ruling, and Miller’s office said it is strongly considering an appeal.
  • The Pinal County Board of Supervisors sued after a Jan. 30 vote to void the deal, arguing only the sheriff or proper county approval can authorize such partnerships.
  • The 287(g) program lets select local officers perform limited federal immigration duties, and the judge said any such pact functions like a contract that must be authorized under state law.