Governor Kevin Stitt has appointed Oklahoma Commissioner of Public Safety Tim Tipton to develop a plan to prepare for illegal immigrants being held in Oklahoma prisons to be deported by the incoming Trump Administration.
Stitt says Oklahoma taxpayers are paying too much to house these criminals. Currently, the Oklahoma Department of Corrections houses 526 illegal immigrants which is costing about $36,000 a day according to the Governor’s Office.
“The Oklahoma taxpayer should not be left holding the bill for President Biden’s open border policies. As law and order returns to the White House, Oklahoma will lead the charge with a comprehensive plan to deport those who have committed crimes in Oklahoma while in the country illegally.
“I am still committed to finding ways to pursue state-based workforce visas for those who want to pursue the American dream, but we will not tolerate criminal activity in our state. I’m thankful for Commissioner Tipton and his willingness to develop a plan for Oklahoma which can also serve as a model for other states,” said Stitt.
Tipton will work with state, county, and local law enforcement, as well as, the Department of Corrections to develop the plan which will be given to Stitt no later than January 15, 2025.
Tipton also will consult with the Trump transition team to implement the plan when Trump is sworn into office.
“The safety of every Oklahoman is my top priority. We need an all-hands-on deck approach to ensure criminals who are here illegally don’t bring harm to Oklahomans. Right now, Oklahoma taxpayers are paying to keep illegal immigrants incarcerated because the Biden administration has refused to enforce the law. This must end now. I look forward to working with law enforcement throughout the state as well as the Department of Corrections to enforce a zero-tolerance policy for crimes committed by illegal immigrants,” said Tipton.
