Arrests of Illegal Aliens in West Virginia Decline by 650
Recent federal efforts have led to a reduction of 650 illegal immigrants on the streets of West Virginia, as local and federal law enforcement worked together on this issue.
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) carried out an operation in Philadelphia from January 5th to January 19th, targeting areas such as Martinsburg, Moorefield, Morgantown, Beckley, Huntington, and Charleston. This initiative was made public on Friday.
According to the announcement, the collaborative efforts among federal, state, and local enforcement officials focused on identifying and detaining individuals who could potentially compromise national security or public safety, as well as those who entered the country illegally or subverted immigration policies.
Among those arrested were individuals with serious convictions, including child molesters and drug offenders.
The agency noted, “These arrests illustrate how the 287(g) partnership enables local authorities, trained and supervised by ICE, to target and remove individuals who may pose risks to public safety or have violated U.S. immigration laws.” In August, Governor Patrick Morrissey signed an agreement that allows state law enforcement to collaborate with ICE on immigration enforcement.
Morrissey pointed out that the current administration’s border policies have led to an influx of unauthorized entries, including significant amounts of fentanyl crossing into West Virginia. He expressed pride in working alongside ICE to combat illegal immigration and deport dangerous individuals.
During a press conference, he acknowledged President Trump’s administration for its immigration law enforcement efforts, stating, “I’m so proud of the president and what he’s accomplished in this area.” He expressed appreciation for the impact these efforts have had on public safety in West Virginia.
Furthermore, according to reports, Morrissey instructed state agencies to collaborate with ICE following a week in January when 72 illegal aliens were arrested. Michael Rose, acting director of ICE’s Philadelphia Field Office, commented that this operation showcases how effective the partnership between ICE and West Virginia law enforcement can be in enhancing public safety and maintaining the integrity of the immigration system.
