Florida – The state of Florida remains committed to successfully managing immigration challenges and preventing unauthorized entries. Governor Ron DeSantis has taken decisive action in response to the potential surge of illegal immigrants from Haiti by deploying additional state resources to fortify the Florida Keys and the state’s southern waters.
Strengthening Florida’s Southern Front
Due to the ongoing crises in nations like Haiti, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the mobilization of significant state resources to address the anticipated influx of illegal immigrants.
“For quite some time, the State of Florida has been dedicating significant resources to combat illegal vessels coming to Florida from countries such as Haiti. Given the circumstances in Haiti, I have directed the Division of Emergency Management, the Florida State Guard, and state law enforcement agencies to deploy over 250 additional officers and soldiers and over a dozen air and sea craft to the southern coast of Florida to protect our state. No state has done more to supplement the (under-resourced) U.S. Coast Guard’s interdiction efforts; we cannot have illegal aliens coming to Florida,” DeSantis stated.
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The deployment includes a comprehensive suite of personnel and assets aimed at reinforcing the state’s capability to deter illegal immigration via sea routes. The initiative draws participation from multiple state agencies, reflecting a coordinated effort to enhance surveillance and security measures in critical areas.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is contributing 39 additional officers, while the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is adding 23 officers and eight seacraft to the operation. The Florida National Guard is deploying 48 Guardsmen along with four helicopters, complemented by 30 officers from the Florida Highway Patrol, who will utilize additional aircraft and drones for surveillance purposes.
In addition, Governor DeSantis has authorized the Florida State Guard’s deployment to the Keys, involving up to 133 soldiers to assist in the operation.
