New Agreements on Immigration Enforcement in Three States

Recently, three states have entered into various agreements aimed at addressing immigration enforcement, with one governor, located 1,700 miles from the Mexican border, declaring his state effectively a “border state” due to a significant fentanyl crisis.

On Wednesday, Governor Patrick Morrissey of West Virginia unveiled one of the state’s most comprehensive agreements yet. This partnership involves the West Virginia Police Department, the Corrections and Rehabilitation Division, and the National Guard, and seeks to enhance immigration enforcement through “287(g)” authorities initially introduced during the Trump administration.

West Virginia has consistently ranked among states with the highest drug-related death rates, underlining the urgency for Morrissey to collaborate with federal efforts in combating fentanyl trafficking.

“Under the Biden administration, millions of people have been allowed into our country without any information about their backgrounds or potential threats,” Morrissey remarked to Fox News Digital prior to his announcement in Parkersburg.

Wyoming Governor Supports ICE Collaboration

Morrissey emphasized that West Virginia’s fentanyl issues have made it a de facto “border state,” largely due to the impact of illegal immigration.

The National Guard and state police have obtained task force powers to question suspected illegal immigrants regarding their right to remain in the United States, operating under federal oversight.

Officers may address immigration violations for individuals arrested on state or federal charges and can make warrantless arrests of illegal immigrants when they are seen committing offenses.

Morrissey has also authorized immigration warrants to facilitate the collection of crucial evidence, including fingerprints and interviews that could indicate illegal status.

Unique to West Virginia, local law enforcement can issue detainers for immigrants, prepare necessary documentation for federal officials, and take action against individuals trying to escape deportation.

The Department of Corrections is permitted to hold immigrants awaiting federal processing, while correctional officers can issue immigration warrants and manage prisoners’ custody.

Meanwhile, in South Dakota, Governor Larry Roden announced his smaller-scale collaboration with ICE through “Operation Prairie Thunder,” aimed at public safety and drug crime reduction.

This initiative includes tackling gangs and widespread lawlessness, as Governor Roden expressed a commitment to comprehensive crime prevention.

Legislation in Arkansas Enhances Immigration Penalties

Similarly, in Texas, a recent bill mandates that sheriffs, once approved, coordinate with ICE.

Roden noted, “Our efforts align with ICE, ensuring that the Highway Patrol aids in arrests,” emphasizing a multi-agency approach to tackling immigration issues.

In Arkansas, a new law has been enacted that heightens penalties for illegal immigrants committing serious felonies, signed into action by Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders. This “Defense Against Criminal Illegal Act” empowers sheriffs to engage with ICE.

The law allows law enforcement to apply for immigration warrants for individuals already detained for other crimes, significantly broadening their authority.

According to the Arkansas Times, state police have gone beyond the minimum legal cooperation with ICE, allowing officers to question individuals about their immigration status publicly.

A representative from the state police indicated that troopers are required to undergo training before taking on these immigration-related roles, which includes a comprehensive 40-hour online course covering essential aspects of immigration and civil rights law.

Governor Sanders has expressed confidence in the effectiveness of border security measures implemented during the Trump administration, asserting, “This law reflects our commitment to protecting Arkansas citizens from violent crime.”

These developments in West Virginia, Wyoming, and Arkansas add to similar agreements already established in Florida and Wyoming. The ongoing push emphasizes intensified collaboration with federal authorities in immigration enforcement.