Las Vegas Police Defend 287(G) Immigration Program

Authorities address concerns over partnership with ICE at Clark County Detention Center.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 5:24am

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A fractured, abstract painting featuring overlapping geometric shapes and waves of dark blue, grey, and red tones, representing the political tensions and divided perspectives around the 287(G) immigration enforcement program.The controversial 287(G) program linking local police and federal immigration authorities sparks concerns over community trust and public safety.Las Vegas Today

Las Vegas police have defended their 287(G) immigration program, which allows local law enforcement to collaborate with federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials at the Clark County Detention Center. Authorities say the program is aimed at identifying and deporting undocumented immigrants who have committed crimes, though critics argue it erodes trust between immigrant communities and law enforcement.

Why it matters

The 287(G) program has been a controversial topic in many cities, with concerns that it leads to racial profiling and discourages undocumented immigrants from reporting crimes or seeking help from police. Las Vegas officials argue the program is narrowly focused on serious offenders, but immigrant advocates say it still undermines community policing efforts.

The details

Under the 287(G) agreement, select Las Vegas police officers are trained and authorized to perform certain immigration enforcement functions, including identifying and processing undocumented immigrants who are booked into the Clark County Detention Center. Officials say the program is intended to target serious criminal offenders, not individuals arrested for minor infractions.

  • The 287(G) program has been in place in Las Vegas since 2019.

The players

Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that oversees the 287(G) program in partnership with ICE.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal agency that collaborates with local police departments through 287(G) agreements to identify and deport undocumented immigrants.

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What they’re saying

“The 287(G) program is a valuable tool that allows us to focus on the most serious criminal offenders and keep our community safe.”

— Capt. Dori Koren, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department

“This program erodes trust between immigrant communities and law enforcement, which makes everyone less safe.”

— Blanca Gamez, Immigrant rights advocate

What’s next

Las Vegas officials say they will continue to monitor the 287(G) program and make adjustments as needed to address community concerns.

The takeaway

The debate over the 287(G) program highlights the ongoing tensions between immigration enforcement and community policing efforts, with both sides arguing their approach is necessary for public safety.