Robert Hammer Acting Executive Associate Director, Homeland Security Investigations | U.S. Immigration And Customs Enforcement
A collaborative effort between U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office, facilitated by the 287(g) Program, led to the identification and detention of two criminal aliens following a high-speed chase and drug seizure in Frederick County.
"This case is a clear example of how collaboration with local jurisdictions enhances public safety by ensuring that dangerous individuals are properly identified and not released back into our communities," stated ICE Baltimore acting Field Office Director Matthew Elliston. He emphasized the importance of partnerships like the one with Frederick County Sheriff’s Office in prioritizing the removal of serious offenders.
The incident began at approximately 9:20 PM on February 20 when Deputy First Class Roush observed a suspicious white Nissan van near Route 85 and Grove Road. The vehicle attempted to evade law enforcement by turning onto a gravel path behind a shopping center. Upon running the vehicle's tags, DFC Roush received an alert indicating it was stolen, prompting a pursuit with additional deputies.
Matthew Elliston ICE Baltimore acting Field Office Director
| Official Website
The suspects accelerated onto I-270 northbound, reaching speeds up to 100 mph, leading authorities through Frederick and Montgomery counties. Maryland State Police Aviation was called for assistance as the pursuit continued toward Shady Grove Road. The driver rammed another vehicle at a red light before fleeing further. FCSO ended their pursuit while Maryland State Police maintained aerial surveillance, ultimately resulting in four arrests at a Sheetz location on Progress Way with help from Montgomery County Police Department.
A search of the suspect's vehicle revealed crack cocaine, fentanyl, and drug paraphernalia. Two victims from the rammed vehicle were taken to an area hospital for treatment.
"Two of the four suspects taken into custody were found to be in the United States illegally through our 287(g) Program during the central booking process," said Sheriff Jenkins. "These two individuals are being held as removable criminal aliens only because ICE detainers were placed on them by 287(g)-trained correctional officers."
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement acknowledges its relationships with state and local law enforcement partners as vital for national security and public safety missions. The agency remains committed to sharing information and coordinating operations with these partners despite varying levels of cooperation across jurisdictions.
The 287(g) Program allows ICE to collaborate with state and local agencies in arresting and removing aliens who threaten community safety. While effective in some areas, ICE recognizes that this program may not suit every jurisdiction equally well but continues to evaluate its overall effectiveness.
Members of the public can report crimes or suspicious activity by calling 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing an online tip form.
More information about ICE’s mission is available on X at @EROBaltimore.