Residents Critique Madison County Sheriff's Partnership With ICE Over Human Rights Concerns

Madison County residents voiced strong concerns during the Board of Supervisors meeting on August 12, 2025, regarding the recent partnership between Sheriff Hood and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Community members expressed fears that this agreement could lead to human rights abuses and racial profiling, particularly affecting the local immigrant and indigenous populations.

Several speakers, including local veterans and community activists, urged Sheriff Hood to reconsider the partnership, citing the potential harm it could inflict on families and the broader community. One resident highlighted the emotional toll of such agreements, stating, "The damage done to everyone involved is incalculable." Another speaker, Mandy John, a member of the Oneida Nation, emphasized the need for safety and protection from racial profiling, questioning how marginalized groups could feel secure under the new enforcement measures.

The discussions reflected a deep-seated apprehension about the implications of increased collaboration with federal immigration authorities. Residents argued that the focus should remain on community safety rather than targeting undocumented immigrants who contribute positively to the local economy. Maureen Fox, a former county employee, questioned the rationale behind the partnership, asking, "On what basis does he think we have undocumented immigrants in Madison County who have committed crimes?"

The meeting underscored a significant divide in community sentiment regarding law enforcement practices and immigration policy. As the Board of Supervisors considers these concerns, the future of the partnership with ICE remains uncertain, with many residents calling for a more compassionate approach to immigration enforcement that prioritizes community well-being.