Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell is seeking federal immigration powers for troopers in the State Police department.
The Republican governor sent a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano, asking for assistance in developing a 287(g) agreement for the state police.
“We contemplate addressing those aliens who are engaged in major drug offenses or violent offenses such as murder, manslaughter, rape, robbery and kidnapping, as well as DUI offenses,” he wrote. “It is my belief that providing the Virginia Department of State Police the authority granted under 287(g) will serve as a benefit to your department as well as the citizens of the United States and the commonwealth.”
Under 287(g), the federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency provides state and local law enforcement with the training and authorization to identify and detain immigration offenders.
Prince William County, Loudoun County, Frederick County and the City of Manassas now employ the program locally.
