Use the link below to email Sheriff Klang with a pre-written template:

https://secure.ngpvan.com/qBG5vP0APUSUhwlgrm7Tnw2

Template

Dear Sheriff Klang,

I am writing to express my concerns with Crow Wing County’s collaborations with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). In March 2025, your office entered into ICE’s 287(g) program (both the Task Force and Warrant Service models). It is my understanding that Crow Wing County also holds detainees in the County jail. These collaborations with ICE harm community safety and trust. I respectfully ask you to end Crow Wing County’s participation in the 287(g) program and all forms of collaboration with ICE. 

The 287(g) program opens taxpayers up to untenable liability. If, under 287(g) authority, Crow Wing County law enforcement were to hold someone on an ICE administrative warrant that is not supported by probable cause, the Sheriff or the County could be held accountable for unconstitutional detention. This is just one of many potential constitutional violations that could occur when local law enforcement try to carry out ICE functions. Other jurisdictions across the country – without support from the federal government – have been held liable for hundreds of thousands of dollars for such violations. In other words, local taxpayers could pay the price for ICE’s actions. 

Collaborating with ICE through the 287(g) program and by housing detainees in our local jail undermines public safety by muddying the waters between federal ICE agents and local law enforcement. Already, many immigrant community members who contribute to our local economy live in fear of their families being separated by ICE. When noncitizens fear deportation, they are less likely to call police to report crimes and tips. This undermines safety for all of us since this engagement can help solve crimes. In order to build a safe and secure community, it is important that there is a clear separation between local law enforcement and ICE. 

Given that there is no legal obligation to participate in the 287(g) program or lease local jail space, our county’s participation creates unnecessary risk legally and to our community members. I am proud of Crow Wing County’s reputation as a welcoming and safe community, and I hope to maintain this reputation for years to come. I appreciate the work you do for local residents and ask that your focus remains on residents’ needs. I respectfully request that you end all our county’s agreements with ICE. 

Sincerely,
[Name], [City]