In the small farming community of Sterling, a single-street town of 730 people, Police Chief Brad Alexander entered into a contract with ICE and deputized all seven of his full-time and reserve officers with the power to enforce federal immigration laws.

Also in Comanche County, just across the railroad tracks, Fletcher Police Chief Jason DeLonais entered into the same contract. But he’s hesitant to bestow federal powers on his officers, he said. Out of an abundance of caution and until he knows more, he alone is receiving training.

Across the state, just south of Muskogee, Eufaula Police Chief David Bryning signed the contract earlier this year, too. It has been gathering dust, sitting on the back corner of his desk, while he’s been meaning to cancel it.

Statewide, 16 municipal, coun

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