WINTER HAVEN, Fla. — Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd is standing by headline-making comments on illegal immigration that are drawing attention across Florida.
Watch report from Tampa Bay 28 reporter Chad Mills
During a state immigration council meeting on Monday, Judd advocated for what he described as a “path forward” for some undocumented immigrants, which would allow them to remain in the United States under certain conditions instead of being deported.
“The bottom line is — how would I want this dealt with if it were my personal family?” Judd said during a Tuesday press conference.
Judd said his position applies to people who have been in the country for years without committing crimes. He said many of them are working, raising families, and contributing to their communities.
“There are those here that are working hard — they have their kids in college or in school — they go to church on Sunday,” Judd said during the Monday meeting. “They’re not violating the law. And they are living the American Dream and are being very productive in doing good in this country.”
Judd said a potential “path forward” could include requirements such as paying a penalty, learning English, and integrating into society.
Judd also pointed to specific examples of people he believes are caught in the middle of the current system.
“There’s a lady that’s about forty years old. She was brought here illegally by her parents. She’s married to an American. She works. She doesn’t violate the law. She has no criminal history. She’s not currently violating any laws. She’s adding to society,” the sheriff said. “That’s not the problem-person.”
At the same time, Judd emphasized that his position does not apply to everyone. He said law enforcement should continue focusing on undocumented immigrants who commit crimes.
“There’s two lifetimes worth of work for law enforcement to deal with it,” Judd said.
Judd said he believes many Floridians would support that approach. Other law enforcement leaders at the meeting also voiced agreement, including Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri.
“What’s right’s right, and what’s not’s not,” Gualtieri said during the Monday meeting.
Still, both sheriffs acknowledged that any changes to immigration policy would have to come from Congress and the White House.
Judd said he is considering sending a letter outlining his position to federal leaders.
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Chad Mills calls Polk County home and has witnessed the area’s growth firsthand. He keeps his eye on the City of Lakeland, our agriculture community, and helping you navigate everyday expenses. Use the form below to share your story ideas with Chad.
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