Cornhusker State News

Governor Jim Pillen issued a statement after Red Willow County District Judge Patrick Heng denied a request for a temporary injunction that sought to prevent Nebraska from converting the Work Ethic Camp (WEC) into an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility.

“I appreciate that the court expedited this decision, which affirms the State’s right to enter into the contract with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and provides the authority to operate the detention facility under the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS),” said Gov. Pillen. “The agreement we have with DHS is good for Nebraska’s taxpayers and it ensures we are doing all that we can to keep criminal, illegal aliens off our streets.”

Last week, ICE inspectors conducted a final walk-through of the facility and approved it for use. Rob Jeffreys, director of NDCS, commented on his team’s efforts: “Passing these inspections is a testament to our team’s commitment to safety, security, and professionalism. I appreciate the attention to detail shown at every level of this facility and the strong partnerships and cooperation with DHS and ICE that have made this possible.”

According to state officials, Nebraska expects to receive about $14 million per year from its contract with DHS/ICE for operating WEC as an ICE detention center. After accounting for all costs associated with housing detainees, monthly revenue is estimated at approximately $2.4 million.