West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey announced that 60 undocumented immigrants were arrested over the past month through coordinated efforts with state police and Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Eighteen arrests occurred during a single Saturday operation along Interstate 77 when multiple law enforcement agencies were staged to manage Bridge Day traffic.
Governor Morrisey stated his administration's firm stance: "If you are in our country illegally, if you are in West Virginia, if you are breaking our laws, we are going to arrest you. Period."
The governor's office coordinated with West Virginia State Police and ICE officers to conduct these arrests. During Saturday operations on Interstate 77, law enforcement from multiple agencies—including the State Police, Turnpike Police, Public Service Commission, ICE, and DEA—collaborated on enforcement efforts.
Of the 18 Saturday arrests, nine individuals were identified as being in the country illegally after officers made traffic stops. Drivers had allegedly disregarded posted traffic control signs managing Bridge Day congestion, leading to initial contact that resulted in ICE custody determinations.
Colonel Jim Mitchell, superintendent of West Virginia State Police, pledged continued enforcement efforts: "We will continue to work tirelessly, and we will continue to work proudly and professionally to ensure each citizen has the safety and the peace that you deserve."
This enforcement action demonstrates the administration's commitment to immigration law enforcement and border security. By partnering with federal authorities and leveraging state resources, West Virginia is taking an active role in addressing illegal immigration within its borders.
The arrests reflect a broader strategy of using existing law enforcement encounters as opportunities to enforce immigration laws, ensuring that those who enter or remain in the country illegally face consequences.
Originally published by WSAZ
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