Petitioners Sought End to West Virginia 287(g) Agreements
The petition requested that Governor Morrisey terminate federal immigration partnerships within the state.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Immigration
Live Poll
Should your local police assist federal agencies with immigration enforcement?
In September 2026, petitioners called on Governor Patrick Morrisey to end West Virginia's 287(g) agreements with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The initiative targeted the federal program currently utilized by law enforcement in Harrison, Doddridge, Lewis, and Upshur counties.
Why it matters
The petition reflects broader debates over whether 287(g) agreements improve local policing resources or undermine trust between immigrant communities and law enforcement. Critics argue the program shifts local resources toward federal immigration enforcement.
Doddridge County received $137,000 in federal funds via the 287(g) program, which helped purchase two sheriff vehicles. The county has four deputized officers, serving a population of 7,600 that is roughly 1.5% Hispanic or Latino.
The players
Patrick Morrisey
Patrick Morrisey is the Governor of West Virginia.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
This federal agency is responsible for immigration enforcement and oversees the 287(g) partnership program.
The details
The 287(g) Task Force Model allows local law enforcement officers to perform immigration enforcement functions during routine police work. In Doddridge County, officials utilized the program following traffic stops on U.S. 50 that resulted in two detainments.
Timeline
The petition was created in September 2026.
Political Context
Opponents of the 287(g) program argue that local law enforcement should focus on community-specific public safety rather than federal immigration mandates. Conversely, supporters maintain that these agreements provide essential tools, specialized training, and critical funding for local agencies.
Residents in participating counties may experience changes in local law enforcement priorities if federal agreements are altered. These partnerships directly influence how local resources are allocated during routine traffic stops and daily police work.
The takeaway
The debate over 287(g) agreements highlights the tension between local resource acquisition and the broader philosophy of community policing. Residents are encouraged to monitor county commission meetings for future decisions regarding these federal partnerships.
Further reading
For more information on state-level immigration policies, visit Immigration.
More information
To review the federal program guidelines, visit the ICE official web page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WBOY.
Live Poll
Should your local police assist federal agencies with immigration enforcement?
