Galveston County commissioners voted Monday to accept $2,355,000 for the Galveston County Sheriff's Office and $60,000 for the Precinct 1 Constable's Office from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The money supports both agencies' participation in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's 287(g) Task Force program and will help cover information technology and equipment expenses. According to the Galveston County Daily News, County Judge Mark Henry and three commissioners approved the funding as part of the consent agenda without discussion. Commissioner Robin Armstrong was absent.
The new approvals follow $1,125,000 in federal 287(g) funding approved for the sheriff's office on September 14, bringing the combined total to $3.54 million. Under the program, officers who complete federal training can exercise limited immigration enforcement authority while doing their regular duties.
In November 2025, Sheriff Jimmy Fullen reported that 28 deputies had completed the required 40-hour training, with 30 more in training. The sheriff's office also reported transferring 648 people to ICE custody that year. ICE reported 2,698 active 287(g) agreements nationwide as of October 21, 2026.