ICE says More than 600 Illegal Aliens Arrested in West Virginia

(LibertyInsiderNews.com) – West Virginia law enforcement partnered with ICE to remove over 650 illegal aliens during a historic two-week operation that demonstrated how state-federal cooperation can successfully enforce immigration law and protect American communities.

Story Highlights

ICE arrested more than 650 illegal aliens across West Virginia in a 15-day statewide operation from January 5-19, 2026
West Virginia State Police led the nation in daily immigration arrests four times during the operation under the 287(g) partnership agreement
Those arrested included convicted child sex abusers, drug offenders, and individuals operating commercial vehicles illegally
Governor Patrick Morrisey’s 287(g) partnership with ICE enabled state and local officers to assist federal immigration enforcement
The operation involved coordination between ICE Philadelphia and 14 federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies

Statewide Operation Removes Criminal Aliens

ICE Philadelphia coordinated with 14 federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to conduct a comprehensive enforcement operation across West Virginia from January 5-19, 2026. The operation resulted in more than 650 arrests of individuals violating immigration laws, many with criminal convictions including child sex abuse and drug possession charges. Michael Rose, ICE Philadelphia Acting Field Office Director, stated the operation demonstrated how strong partnerships enhance public safety and immigration system integrity. This represents exactly the kind of enforcement Americans voted for when they rejected open border policies.

287(g) Partnership Enables Effective Enforcement

Governor Patrick Morrisey signed a Memorandum of Agreement with ICE in August 2025 establishing the 287(g) program in West Virginia. This agreement authorizes trained state and local law enforcement officers to assist ICE with identifying and removing individuals violating immigration laws. Since September 2025, West Virginia State Police have assisted with 250 arrests prior to this two-week surge operation. Col. Jim Mitchell, State Police Superintendent, reported zero errors in apprehension procedures, emphasizing officers only arrest those in violation of law. This partnership represents the kind of common-sense cooperation that protects communities rather than shielding criminals.

Law Enforcement Leaders Praise Coordination

Jefferson County Sheriff Tom Hansen commended the professionalism and work ethic of ICE agents during the operation. Governor Morrisey praised the effort for removing dangerous criminals and making West Virginia safer for families. West Virginia law enforcement led the nation in daily immigration arrests four times during the 15-day operation, demonstrating the state’s commitment to enforcing federal immigration law. The operation specifically targeted individuals with final removal orders, those operating commercial vehicles illegally, and convicted criminals who threaten public safety. This is what real law enforcement looks like when states refuse to obstruct federal efforts.

Operation Targets Multiple Violation Categories

The enforcement operation focused on specific priority categories beyond general immigration violations. Among those arrested was Sagar Singh, an Indian citizen apprehended during Operation ICE Wall targeting commercial vehicle operators working illegally. The operation removed individuals with violent crime convictions, those with outstanding deportation orders, and others operating in violation of multiple federal laws. The coordinated effort expanded across six cities throughout West Virginia, demonstrating comprehensive statewide reach rather than isolated enforcement actions. Federal prosecutors coordinated with ICE to ensure proper legal proceedings for detained individuals.

The operation concluded on January 19, 2026, with arrested individuals entering various stages of detention and deportation proceedings. Federal court proceedings have begun for some detainees, with ongoing legal processes expected to continue for months. This operation establishes West Virginia as a potential model for other states seeking to partner with federal immigration enforcement rather than obstruct it. The 287(g) framework enables sustained cooperation between state and federal agencies while maintaining proper legal procedures and accountability standards.