SMITH COUNTY, Texas — Smith County leaders will meet Tuesday to consider whether Precinct 4 Constable’s office will move forward with adopting the 287(g) program .

Precinct 4 Constable Josh Joplin is seeking approval to join 287(g), which trains deputies to work with ICE after criminal arrests. Supporters say it boosts policing, while critics warn it fuels discrimination and fear.

Precinct 4 Constable Josh Joplin plans to present commissioners with an agreement that would bring the program under his jurisdiction.

“I want my deputies and myself and this office to have all the tools and all the resources that are available to them to keep people safe and to also do their jobs effectively,” Joplin said.

Joplin emphasized that the program does not give his deputies authority to proactive

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