Mayor Demings Signs Addendum to Modify ICE Agreement in Orange County
By Hotspotorlando News
On the morning of August 1, 2025, Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings made a significant decision by signing an Addendum to Modify the Memorandum of Agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This move marks a shift in the county’s approach to immigration enforcement, following weeks of intense debate and pressure from state officials.
The addendum modifies the existing 287(g) Warrant Service Officer Agreement, a program that allows local law enforcement to collaborate with ICE. The key change introduced by this addendum is the authorization for certified local law enforcement agency (LEA) personnel to transport ICE detainees to ICE-approved facilities. Previously, the agreement focused primarily on the identification and processing of immigrants by local officers, but the transportation responsibility had not been explicitly included. This new provision expands the scope of local involvement, aligning with recent demands from Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier, who had threatened civil and criminal penalties for noncompliance with state law prohibiting sanctuary policies. As of 5:44 PM EDT on August 1, 2025, it has been confirmed that Demings’ change of mind came after Uthmeier threatened his removal from office, reversing his earlier resistance due to concerns over local resource burdens.
The decision comes after Uthmeier’s letters to Demings and the Orange County Commissioners on July 29 and 30, 2025, warning of potential consequences, including removal from office by Governor Ron DeSantis. Demings, who had previously resisted such measures, citing the burden on local resources and his focus on community safety, appears to have relented under this pressure. The addendum also includes updated language clarifying the roles and responsibilities of LEA personnel, ensuring they notify the ICE Office of the Principal Legal Advisor for representation requests and adhere to federal guidelines on non-discrimination.
This development is set to be further discussed at the Orange County Board of Commissioners meeting on August 5, 2025, indicating that while the signing has occurred, the broader implications may still be under review. The change reflects a compromise between local governance and state mandates, potentially reshaping how Orange County handles immigration enforcement moving forward.