GREEN COVE SPRINGS, Fla. – A Jacksonville immigrant advocacy group said it is “deeply concerned” about the Clay County Sheriff’s Office’s conducting a driver’s license checkpoint in Green Cove Springs on Friday.
On Wednesday, the sheriff’s office made the announcement and warned drivers to expect delays in the area on Friday from 9-11 a.m.
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A spokesperson told News4JAX that it had been “quite some time” since they’d conducted a checkpoint and that it intends to have them throughout the county and will announce them.
The Jacksonville Immigrant Rights Alliance said that it is “deeply concerned” about the announcement and referenced the timing of the announcement.
“The timing is suspicious, coming amid new federal funding that pays local police to enforce immigration laws. This creates a dangerous incentive for racial profiling,” a JIRA spokesperson said. "We stand in solidarity with all people targeted by these immigration crackdowns and racial profiling. Such policies do not enhance public safety; they destroy the trust between law enforcement and our communities, making everyone less safe. A family on their way to work or school should not be treated as suspects because of their appearance."
JIRA also listed things to know for immigrants and people who may be affected.
1. You have the right to remain silent. You do not have to answer questions about your immigration status or place of birth. You can calmly state, “I am exercising my right to remain silent.”
2. Do not open your door to anyone unless they show a warrant signed by a judge. You have the right to see the warrant.
3. Have a safety plan. Memorize the phone number of a trusted friend, family member, or lawyer. Ensure someone knows where you are and can care for children or dependents if you are detained.
4. If you are driving, you must show your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance if asked. Beyond that, you are not required to answer other questions.
JIRA will continue fighting these discriminatory policies and demand an immediate end to 287(g) agreements that turn local police into immigration enforcement.
Jacksonville Immigration Rights Alliance