Mar 17, 2026
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 Sheriff Grady Judd clarifies stance on il legal immigration, deportationDuring 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. Sheriff Grady Judd Immigration Enforcement meetingThe 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. Theyre 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.Theres a lady thats about forty years old. She was brought here illegally by her parents. Shes married to an American. She works. She doesnt violate the law. She has no criminal history. Shes not currently violating any laws. Shes adding to society, the sheriff said. Thats 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.Theres 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.Whats rights right, and whats nots 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. ...read more read less
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