Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd forcefully rebutted media reports claiming he and other Florida sheriffs are opposing mass deportation efforts, holding up printed signs during a Tuesday news conference to directly challenge headlines alleging a “rebellion” against policies advanced by President Donald Trump and Gov. Ron DeSantis.
Judd, who chairs the State Immigration Enforcement Council, addressed coverage stemming from the council’s March 16, 2026, quarterly meeting, where members discussed prioritizing deportations of criminal offenders and those with active removal orders while suggesting a potential “path forward” for non-criminal undocumented immigrants who contribute positively to society.
“Not true,” Judd declared, displaying one sign quoting a report that read “Florida Sheriffs rebel against Trump’s, DeSantis’ mass deportation efforts.” He held up another criticizing claims of a “closed door meeting,” noting the session was publicly announced and attended by media.
“We in fact support the mass deportation of illegal aliens — those who are criminals, those who have warrants of deportation, those who are here creating havoc and problems,” Judd said. “If you are here illegally, and you take that risk to be here illegally, then you are going to be deported.”
The sheriff emphasized full cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), stating Florida law enforcement “wholeheartedly support and endorse ICE” and routinely act on federal detainers. He clarified that entering the U.S. without authorization constitutes a federal civil violation, not a criminal offense, under current law.
While endorsing aggressive enforcement against public safety threats, Judd urged elected officials in Washington to develop targeted guidelines addressing the estimated 10 to 18 million undocumented individuals nationwide. He described many as employed, law-abiding contributors who entered illegally but have built positive records without relying on government assistance or committing crimes.
“Those people who are adding to the American Dream … we need to find a path for them,” Judd said, suggesting penalties such as fines could accompany any pathway while prioritizing removal of violent offenders and those straining resources.
The comments follow the council’s agreement to draft a letter to Trump, congressional leaders, and others advocating a more focused approach over blanket mass deportations.
Judd insisted the position aligns with common-sense public views across party lines and does not represent a break from state or federal leadership directives.
No immediate response from the White House, Gov. DeSantis’ office, or ICE was available as of March 23, 2026. The full press conference video is posted on the Polk County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page.
