TYLER, Texas — Smith County Sheriff Larry Smith is clarifying the way that the sheriff's office enforces certain offenses and its participation in the federal 287(g) immigration enforcement program.

In February at a community forum regarding immigration enforcement, Smith told attendees his deputies would not be arresting people only for Class C misdemeanor offenses, such as driving without a driver's license. He said that decision was made based on two factors: jail overcrowding and COVID-19 restrictions.

In his letter to Smith County citizens, Smith said those circumstances have now changed, saying that jail overcrowding is no longer a concern and COVID-19 restrictions are not in effect.

"With those limitations lifted, our jail can now accept Class C misdemeanors. Deputies are once ag

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