Washington County Commissioners Back DHS, ICE Amid Protests

Commissioners adopt resolution supporting federal immigration enforcement despite intense local opposition.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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The Washington County Board of Commissioners in Maryland adopted a resolution in full support of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) amid intense protests at their meeting. This comes as DHS and ICE have plans to open an ICE detention center just outside of Hagerstown, sparking outrage from local residents.

Why it matters

The resolution highlights the ongoing tensions between local governments and federal immigration enforcement agencies, as Maryland lawmakers and jurisdictions consider bills to limit cooperation with ICE. The protests also reflect broader debates around immigration policy and the role of federal agencies in local communities.

The details

Around 100 protesters disrupted the commissioners' meeting, blowing whistles and being warned multiple times that the room would be cleared if the outbursts continued. Despite the protests, the commissioners adopted the resolution in total support of DHS and ICE and their plans for the new detention center.

  • The Washington County Board of Commissioners adopted the resolution on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.
  • DHS and ICE recently purchased a 54-acre warehouse property for $102 million to open the new ICE detention center just outside of Hagerstown.

The players

Washington County Board of Commissioners

The governing body of Washington County, Maryland that adopted the resolution in support of DHS and ICE.

Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

The U.S. federal executive department responsible for public security, including immigration enforcement through agencies like ICE.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal law enforcement agency under DHS that is responsible for enforcing immigration laws in the United States.

Protesters

Local residents who disrupted the commissioners' meeting in opposition to the plans for the new ICE detention center.

Maryland Governor

The governor of Maryland who wrote a letter to the DHS Secretary and directed state agencies to review options in response to the planned ICE detention center.

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What they’re saying

“Protesters told WBAL-TV 11 News that county officials are ignoring their perspective.”

— Protesters (WBAL-TV 11 News)

What’s next

The Maryland General Assembly and multiple local jurisdictions are considering bills to limit cooperation with ICE, which could impact the planned detention center. The governor has also directed state agencies to review options in response to the facility.

The takeaway

This resolution highlights the ongoing tensions between local governments and federal immigration enforcement agencies, as communities grapple with the presence and expansion of ICE detention facilities. The protests and legislative efforts reflect the divisive nature of immigration policy debates in Maryland and across the country.