Approximately 200 U.S. Marines were deployed to Florida to provide support for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations. The deployment, authorized by the Department of Defense under Title 10 of the U.S. Code, focused strictly on administrative and logistical assistance, not law enforcement. The Marines were assigned tasks such as data processing, supply coordination, and case management to help ICE manage operational backlogs.
Officials emphasized that the troops would not interact directly with individuals in custody or perform detention duties. This deployment is part of a broader federal effort to assist ICE in areas with high processing demands. Additional personnel, including National Guard and reserve units, were approved to provide similar support in states such as Texas and Louisiana.
Florida’s facilities, which handle increasing arrivals from various regions, were a priority for this administrative support. The goal was to relieve ICE staff so they could focus on core enforcement duties, while ensuring operations run smoothly. The use of active-duty military personnel in domestic support roles has generated public discussion. Supporters highlight the efficiency and interagency cooperation this approach provides, helping agencies manage high caseloads.
Critics raise concerns about military presence in civilian settings and emphasize transparency and clear boundaries between administrative support and law enforcement. Officials continue to monitor the deployment closely, ensuring compliance with legal requirements. The mission illustrates the balance between federal assistance, operational needs, and maintaining proper military‑civilian roles, while supporting immigration operations in an administrative capacity.
