Oklahoma Partners with ICE for Criminal Deportations

Officials in Oklahoma have formed a significant partnership with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency (ICE) aimed at deporting hundreds of undocumented immigrants who are incarcerated in state prisons.

Governor Kevin Stitt is developing a strategy that could lead to the deportation of up to 500 individuals convicted of crimes in Oklahoma who are currently serving their sentences.

Recently, ICE highlighted its partnership with Oklahoma in a message on social media. The agency stated that “Oklahoma has no sanctuary cities,” and it is rolling out initiatives to transfer foreign criminals directly from prisons to ICE.

The agency further explained, “That makes sense.”

Stitt is also examining the sentences of various offenders, with the possibility of shortening them to facilitate quicker deportations, according to reports from media sources.

The initiative, termed “Operation Guardians,” seeks to cut costs by providing housing and meals for prisoners. It’s suggested that if a substantial number of undocumented individuals are deported, the state could save approximately $1 million a month.

Under this program, prisoners nearing the end of their sentences may be moved into ICE detention facilities for deportation.

Interestingly, the program allows inmates to have a say in their deportation process. Inmates can present their cases to the state’s parole board, seeking parole as a pathway to being handed over to ICE.

So far, about 60 prisoners have completed the necessary steps, but there are many more awaiting their turn.

Among those targeted for deportation are individuals convicted of violent offenses. Governor Stitt’s office has stated it will carefully review each case to determine eligibility for early parole and deportation.

Victims of violent crimes also have a voice in these deportation proceedings, as they can speak during state parole hearings.

However, Public Safety Commissioner Tipton clarified that the governor isn’t simply releasing dangerous criminals. He noted that for those involved in serious offenses, such as rape or murder, there will be no early release until they have served their sentences or have been moved to a federal facility.

Discussions have been ongoing with the Trump administration regarding these matters as well.