Virginia News
Bill concerning illegal immigrant inmates goes before governor
From NBC12 News
Piggy-backing an initiative by state authorities to target illegal immigrant sex offenders, a bill approved by the legislature concerns the immigration status of prison inmates.

If enacted, the bill would require correctional facilities to determine if an inmate is a legal U.S. citizen. Supporters say the change would flag criminals who may need to be deported at the end of their incarceration.

The bill also mandates that, once arrested, illegal immigrants will be held in a "no bond status," meaning they will remain in custody until arraigned in court.

"The most significant part of that is these individuals are a significant flight risk," said Virginia Attorney General Bob McDonnell. "So, you've got to keep them in a detained capacity or you run the risk that they'll never show up for trial."

The bill has made it through the House and Senate and now moves to Gov. Kaine for his signature.

(c) 2008. WWBT, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

Story Created: Feb 21, 2008 at 8:50 AM EST

Story Updated: Feb 21, 2008 at 9:53 AM EST








Find this article at:
http://www.nbc12.com/news/state/15836122.html


SAVE THIS | EMAIL THIS | Close


Check the box to include the list of links referenced in the article.



©2007 WWBT-TV. All Rights Reserved.