ACLU Challenges Wyoming Sheriff's ICE Immigration Enforcement Agreement

Key Details The American Civil Liberties Union filed a lawsuit against Laramie County Sheriff Brian Kozak on May 26 over his agency's partnership with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Kozak and 25 deputies were sworn in by ICE in October 2025 under the 287(g) provision to enforce immigration law. Why It Matters Since the agreement, the sheriff's office has conducted commercial vehicle enforcement operations targeting undocumented truck drivers, some branded as 'Truck Around And Find Out.' The ACLU argues Kozak violated Wyoming law by failing to secure approval from county commissioners before signing the 287(g) agreements. Legal Issues Attorneys claim the sheriff bypassed the Wyoming Administrative Procedure Act's rulemaking process, denying community members the chance to comment on the partnership. ACLU officials contend that sheriffs have limited statutory authority and any agreement requires governing body approval. Broader Impact The Wyoming Highway Patrol and other state law enforcement agencies have also signed 287(g) partnerships with ICE. The ACLU emphasizes that transparency and democratic processes are essential when decisions directly affect communities and residents.