Beaufort, October 25, 2025
News Summary
Over 300 residents gathered outside the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office to protest a recent agreement with ICE for immigration enforcement. Demonstrators delivered 337 letters to Sheriff P.J. Tanner expressing concerns about the implications of the 287(g) program on public safety and community cohesion. They fear the partnership could further divide the community and disrupt due process for immigrants. While Sheriff Tanner acknowledged community concerns, the program allows local law enforcement to apply immigration laws, raising significant civil rights questions.
Beaufort, South Carolina – Residents gathered outside the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office on Thursday morning to protest a partnership between the sheriff’s office and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) aimed at enforcing immigration laws. More than 300 residents delivered a total of 337 letters addressed to Sheriff P.J. Tanner expressing their opposition to the agreement.
The protest took place at the corner of Ribaut and Boundary streets in Beaufort, where demonstrators voiced their support for the immigrant community. An organizer from the Sun City Democrats indicated that the community opposes the agreement, highlighting their concerns over issues of due process and human dignity.
The protests were ignited by discussions held at two community meetings over the summer, during which residents raised concerns about the 287(g) agreement. Community members feared that this partnership could further divide the community and negatively impact public safety. Another local activist pointed out the financial burden associated with enforcing the agreement, while expressing concern over its limited protections for immigrants.
In response, Sheriff Tanner acknowledged the community’s concerns during a conversation with reporters. Organizers of the protest hoped that Tanner would take note of the discontent among constituents, as it may influence his support in future elections.
The 287(g) program, which the agreement falls under, allows local law enforcement to collaborate with ICE for immigration enforcement. Signed on July 29, the agreement was formalized by an ICE deputy director on July 31 and will remain in effect until either party decides to terminate it. The program has experienced increased participation from law enforcement agencies throughout South Carolina and has faced scrutiny for potential civil rights violations.
The partnership enables deputies to apply immigration enforcement as part of their daily operations. Sheriff Tanner has plans to recruit retired officers to support the initiative and stated that newly appointed deputies would undergo mandatory training and certification by ICE. While initial training has yet to take place, the sheriff’s office has indicated that it will commence shortly. Tanner aims to build a task force that includes deputies with a minimum of two years in law enforcement.
Importantly, the agreement stipulates that the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office will bear the salary and operational costs for new deputies, while ICE will cover training expenses and provide the necessary technology. Concerns from the community have been heightened by recent ICE operations resulting in multiple arrests related to immigration status and identity fraud.
Organizers have committed to continuing their efforts to voice opposition to the partnership with ICE and remain dedicated to supporting their immigrant neighbors.
Conclusion
The protest in Beaufort highlights ongoing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement, showcasing the community’s concerns about its implications for public safety and civil rights. The effects of the 287(g) agreement and community response will likely resonate within upcoming local discussions and elections.
FAQ Section
What was the reason for the protest in Beaufort County?
The protest was aimed at opposing an agreement signed by Sheriff P.J. Tanner that allows his office to partner with ICE to enforce immigration laws.
How many letters did the protesters deliver?
Protesters delivered a total of 337 letters addressed to Sheriff Tanner.
What community concerns were raised during the protests?
Community members expressed fears that the agreement would further divide the community and undermine public safety.
What is the 287(g) program?
The 287(g) program allows local law enforcement to perform immigration enforcement, authorized under federal law.
What costs are associated with the agreement?
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office will cover the new deputies’ salary and operational costs, while ICE will handle training expenses.
Key Features of the 287(g) Agreement
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Partnership | Local law enforcement collaborates with ICE for immigration enforcement. |
| Cost Sharing | Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office covers deputies’ salaries while ICE funds training. |
| Duration | Effective until terminated by either party. |
| Training | New deputies must complete mandatory ICE training and certification. |
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Additional Resources
- WTOC: Beaufort Co. Residents Deliver Letters to Sheriff
- Wikipedia: ICE (U.S.)
- Island Packet: Beaufort Co. Sheriff Signs ICE Partnership
- Google Search: 287(g) program
- WSAV: Beaufort Co. Sheriff Signs Partnership with ICE
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Immigration
- Your Island News: Five Men Arrested During ICE Raid
- Google News: Beaufort County Sheriff
- WJCL: Bluffton Man Claims Wrongful Detention by ICE
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
