Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones Inquires into Greene County Sheriff’s ICE Cooperation

Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones’ office has sent a formal inquiry to Greene County Sheriff Steven Smith concerning the department’s collaboration with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on immigration matters. The two-page document from the Office of Civil Rights requests information about traffic stops and related enforcement actions conducted in partnership with federal authorities. This development follows Greene County’s participation in federal programs that authorize local officers to assist with immigration violations.

Sheriff Steven Smith has led the Greene County Sheriff’s Office since 2012 and has implemented policies focused on community safety through cooperation with various agencies. The department maintains a 287(g) agreement with ICE, which trains and deputizes select personnel to perform specific immigration enforcement functions under federal oversight. Such arrangements aim to enhance the identification and processing of individuals subject to removal proceedings.

Greene County, located in central Virginia, has seen recent joint operations that resulted in arrests of individuals for immigration violations alongside local charges. Community discussions have highlighted differing views on the role of local law enforcement in federal immigration matters. Some residents support the partnerships as necessary for public safety, while others express concerns about resource allocation and community relations.

The attorney general’s inquiry examines whether the sheriff’s activities comply with state guidance on cooperation with ICE. Virginia law permits localities to set their own policies regarding federal immigration enforcement, provided they do not conflict with federal requirements. The review seeks details on specific incidents and the scope of joint activities undertaken by the department.

Sheriff Steven Smith has publicly affirmed his office’s commitment to working with ICE where it serves the interests of county residents. Statements from the sheriff emphasize constitutional responsibilities and the need to enforce all applicable laws without regard to immigration status in certain contexts. The inquiry does not indicate formal charges but represents an official request for documentation and explanations.

Federal programs like 287(g) have operated for years across multiple states, allowing trained local officers to support immigration enforcement in jails and during field operations. Proponents cite improved efficiency in removing criminal noncitizens, while opponents raise questions about training, oversight, and potential impacts on trust between police and immigrant communities. Greene County’s involvement aligns with a group of Virginia sheriff’s offices that have entered similar agreements.

The attorney general, sworn in earlier this year, has indicated a review of existing guidance on local-federal immigration cooperation. This effort seeks to ensure policies balance public safety priorities with other considerations. No final determination has been announced regarding the Greene County matter, and the sheriff’s office has the opportunity to respond to the inquiry.

Public records show ongoing debates in Virginia about the appropriate level of local involvement in immigration enforcement. Multiple counties have weighed in through board discussions or public comments on the benefits and drawbacks of such partnerships. The current inquiry adds to these discussions by focusing on one specific department’s practices.

Observers note that outcomes of the inquiry could influence future cooperation models between Virginia sheriffs and federal immigration authorities. The process allows for clarification of roles and any applicable limitations under state law. Both the attorney general’s office and the sheriff’s department continue their respective duties while addressing the request for information.

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Greene County is a county in Central Virginia. Its county seat is Stanardsville.

Email Jay Jones at:

Jay Jones: RPickett@oag.state.va.us,