West Virginia Arrests 37 Undocumented Immigrants in 11 Days Under ICE 287(g) Program

West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey, supporting President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown, announced that 37 undocumented immigrants were arrested in the state over 11 days through traffic stops and DUI checkpoints, as part of the state's cooperation with ICE under the 287(g) program. Since January, over 1,000 ICE detainees have been processed through West Virginia's correctional facilities, with the state charging ICE $90 per detainee per day for jail space, leading to the relocation of some local inmates. Morrisey emphasized that illegal immigration is a significant problem in West Virginia, contradicting previous assumptions, and linked immigration enforcement efforts to concerns about drug trafficking, referencing a recent large fentanyl bust with cartel-related markings. The governor reiterated the state's commitment to enforcing immigration laws in partnership with federal officials, noting that these arrests reflect a widespread issue and that legal action will continue to protect residents. West Virginia State Police Superintendent Col. Jim Mitchell stressed that while the dignity of all individuals is valued, the state demands legal residency. The enforcement actions and detention operations have continued unaffected despite federal government shutdowns, demonstrating ongoing collaboration between state and federal agencies.