West Virginia’s governor revealed Monday that the state’s correctional system is holding more than 50 people suspected of illegal immigration.
W.Va. Gov. Patrick Morrisey said he has authorized state agencies to actively coordinate with the federal government on immigration enforcement.
As of Monday afternoon, Morrisey said that 53 suspected illegal immigrants were being held in state institutions. These detentions were carried out at the orders of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the FBI.
“We will take all appropriate steps to protect our citizens and work with the Trump administration to crack down on illegal immigration,” Morrisey said in a written statement.
The inmates will be held until their immigration status is verified.
