NewsCreative Loafing Tampa Bay — NewsSeptember 1, 2026Hillsborough
Pinellas County Human Rights Board considers investigation into Sheriff's immigrant detention practices
The Pinellas County Human Rights Board is evaluating whether to launch an investigation into Sheriff Bob Gualtieri regarding reports of unconventional immigrant detention procedures. The inquiry follows allegations that the jail resets 72-hour detention limits by releasing and rebooking immigrants into federal custody.
Read the full story at Creative Loafing Tampa Bay — NewsWhy It Matters
The potential investigation could change oversight procedures for local law enforcement's cooperation with federal immigration authorities and impact how detention time limits are managed in Pinellas County jails.
Key Facts
- The Pinellas County Human Rights Board is reviewing options to investigate Sheriff Bob Gualtieri.
- The potential investigation stems from a ProPublica report regarding immigrant detention practices.
- The report alleges the jail resets 72-hour detention limits by releasing immigrants into federal custody and immediately rebooking them.
- The practice described involves a cycle of booking, releasing to ICE, and rebooking.
Who's Mentioned
personRené Flowers“County Commissioner and Board Chair”organizationPinellas County Human Rights Board“The board considering the investigation.”organizationProPublica“News organization that published the initial report.”personBob Gualtieri“Sheriff of Pinellas County”organizationU.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement“Federal agency involved in immigrant detention”personBrittany Leclair“Pastor at First United Methodist Church of Pinellas Park”organizationPinellas County human rights board“Local board currently reviewing its investigative authority”organizationLeague of Women Voters“Advocacy group requesting investigation”other287(g)“Agreement allowing local law enforcement to perform federal immigration duties”