URGENT UPDATE: Steuben County residents are expressing immediate concerns over the potential housing of ICE detainees at the Steuben County Jail. During a heated meeting of the Steuben County Legislature on Wednesday, legislators voted 13-4 to increase funding through a contract with the United States Marshals Service, raising the per diem rate to $130 per day effective January 31.
Community members fear that this agreement could pave the way for the reintroduction of ICE into the jail, a situation they are determined to prevent. “This is the new ICE, and we don’t know how bad it’s going to get,” warned resident Lisa Shock. “If it gets really bad, are we going to back out of this contract?”
Another resident, Mary Lisi, echoed these fears, stating, “When two people were killed, the game changed. This agreement was drawn before we saw the new ICE.” Lisi referenced the recent fatalities of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, both victims of federal immigration agents during anti-ICE protests, emphasizing the heightened anxiety surrounding ICE operations.
Sheriff Jim Allard attempted to reassure the public, noting that there have been no ICE detainees in the facility for the past four years. “There was a federal ruling that said county jails can no longer hold ICE detainees that are only on an administrative warrant,” Allard explained. “I don’t believe we’ve held any ICE detainees since that ruling.”
However, residents remain skeptical. Joan Rosen, another community member, highlighted the shift in ICE’s operations and the implications for local safety. “Now it’s completely different. All bets are off,” she stated.
The sheriff confirmed that while the contract’s terms have changed, the overall agreement remains intact. “If ICE changes the rules, I’m open to anybody that’s been in front of a federal judge and is remanded to us,” Allard added, dismissing immediate changes in the facility’s detainee population.
As these discussions continue, the community is on high alert, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in the handling of federal detainees. Residents are mobilizing to ensure their voices are heard as potential implications of this agreement unfold.
Stay tuned for further updates as this situation develops.
