ICE activity in Jefferson County remains unlikely but possible

Jefferson County Sheriff Zena Stephens said the probability that ICE is working in Jefferson County currently is low. However, it's not impossible.

Stephens said Immigration and Customs Enforcement does not normally notify the Office when coming to the area. However, since they cover more than Southeast Texas, the probability that they're here is low.

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Stephens said the Office typically is in contact with ICE when it has people in custody that came into the U.S. illegally.

ICE then has 48 hours to pick the people or person up to decide if there are any criminal charges that would make them a danger. If they do not, the individuals typically are then, Stephens said.

RELATED: How local school districts are responding to federal immigration policies

"They have 48 hours to come get them, in case they take care of their criminal charge," Stephens said. "We have to hold them, give them an opportunity to come pick them up."

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Stephens did not say if there is anyone at the Jefferson County jail on such a hold.

Beaumont police spokesperson Haley Morrow said she's also unaware of any current ICE presence in Beaumont.

Hardin County Judge Wayne McDaniel said that last week, ICE agents came to Lumberton, but he's not sure if rumors of them being back are true.

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McDaniel said that he is not notified ahead of time by ICE when they are coming to the area. He only hears about it from law enforcement officers or residents.

This report will be updated.

RELATED: How local school districts are responding to federal immigration policies