West Virginia officials partnered with ICE to conduct a two-week operation resulting in approximately 650 arrests of illegal immigrants with criminal histories or prior deportation orders. The operation, which ran from January 5-19, targeted individuals across the state including the Eastern Panhandle, with local law enforcement reporting minimal disruption. Officials contrast this cooperative approach with the sustained protests and confrontations seen during similar enforcement efforts in Minnesota.

West Virginia Attorney General JB McCuskey praised the state's approach, arguing that cooperation rather than confrontation prevented the kind of disorder witnessed elsewhere. He criticized Minnesota leadership, particularly Attorney General Keith Ellison, for failing to address immigration enforcement and accused them of inciting riots and violence. McCuskey suggested Minnesota's leadership can no longer blame federal law for their approach, noting all states operate under the same immigration statutes.

Jefferson County Sheriff Thomas Hansen confirmed the operation's professionalism, noting ICE agents' positive interactions with citizens and local law enforcement. The arrests included individuals convicted of serious crimes including assault with weapons, domestic violence, gun offenses, and child neglect. DHS officials indicated they expect similar success in other states that cooperate with federal enforcement efforts, citing comparable operations in Alabama.

West Virginia Democratic Party Chair Mike Pushkin countered that the comparison to Minnesota is misleading, citing a federal judge's order to release some detainees due to lack of evidence justifying their detention. He credited Minnesota leaders for standing up to what he described as violations of due process and constitutional rights.

Quick Fact: ICE's West Virginia operation resulted in approximately 650 arrests over a two-week period.