Work Ethic Camp in McCook a Future Detention Facility

LINCOLN, NE – Today, Governor Jim Pillen announced three state-federal partnerships to support President Donald Trump’s efforts to promote homeland security and protect Americans from criminal, illegal aliens in the United States. 

“This is about keeping Nebraskans – and Americans across our country – safe,” said Governor Pillen. “We want President Trump to know that Nebraska is supportive and grateful for his ongoing, critical work with Secretary Noem to arrest and deport criminal, illegal aliens.”

In conjunction with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Secretary Kristi Noem, Gov. Pillen ordered the Nebraska National Guard to provide administrative and logistical support to Nebraska-based ICE officials in enforcing immigration laws. Approximately 20 Army National Guard soldiers will participate in this mission, commencing training within the next week.

Additionally, Gov. Pillen and Sec. Noem announced an agreement to utilize the Work Ethic Camp (WEC) in McCook as a future detention facility for those awaiting deportation and other immigration proceedings. 

Finally, at Gov. Pillen’s direction, the Nebraska State Patrol announced its intent to sign a 287(g) agreement empowering its Nebraska State troopers to help ICE arrest criminal, illegal aliens.

“Earlier this summer, on the streets of Omaha, Nebraska law enforcement agents worked with ICE to arrest a MS-13 drug-trafficking kingpin and murderer,” said Gov. Pillen. “This stuff hits close to home – and hits every corner of this state and country. Government's most important job is to keep us safe, and that’s why the State of Nebraska, under my leadership, is partnering with President Trump and his team to help Make America Safe Again.”