Wicomico County Announces Intent to Move Forward with ICE Warrant Service Officer Model

Wicomico County announced today its intent to move forward with the Warrant Service Officer (WSO) model, a program with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) designed to enhance public safety by allowing specially trained officers to serve and execute administrative immigration warrants on individuals already in county custody.The WSO program is a structured partnership with ICE that gives local law enforcement the authority and training to cooperate in cases where individuals in custody are subject to immigration detainers. A strong working partnership with ICE is beneficial to Wicomico County, as it provides clear guardrails on how immigration-related responsibilities will be handled at the local level, ensuring consistency, accountability, and proper oversight.

County Executive Julie Giordano and Sheriff Mike Lewis both expressed their support for this initiative, citing its importance to law enforcement and community protection.

“Public safety is our top responsibility,” said County Executive Julie Giordano. “The Warrant Service Officer program provides our Sheriff’s Office with the tools they need to address individuals already in custody who may pose a risk to our community at no additional cost to the county. I am proud to stand with Sheriff Lewis in supporting this model, which is built on accountability, collaboration, and a strong partnership with ICE.”

Sheriff Mike Lewis emphasized the benefits for his deputies.

“This program gives our deputies the ability to safely and lawfully carry out their duties while ensuring that Wicomico County remains a secure place to live, work, and raise a family,” said Sheriff Lewis. “With the WSO model in partnership with ICE, we can better protect our citizens while upholding the rule of law.”

The County Executive and Sheriff’s Office will work closely with ICE to implement training and procedures for
the WSO model in the coming months.