Gov. Stitt rolls out immigration plan "Operation Guardian"

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) – Governor Kevin Stitt announced the rollout of “Operation Guardian.” The initiative would deport undocumented immigrants in Oklahoma prisons.

Stitt claims taxpayers are spending around $36,000 a day to house more than 500 illegal immigrants at state correctional facilities.

The Governor addressed “Operation Guardian” during his State of the State address on Monday.

"Oklahoma taxpayers shouldn't be paying millions of dollars a year to keep criminals incarcerated when they shouldn't be in our state to begin with," said Stitt.

Stitt said law enforcement agencies will work with ICE agents to send offenders to federal custody. But first, the Governor must commute their sentences.

“This plan ensures Oklahoma leads the nation in cracking down on illegal aliens who’ve committed crimes against our communities,” said Stitt.

He said law enforcement will also be targeting offenders who have already been released from prison.

House Democrats responded to the announcement on Wednesday.

"I'm feeling like I'm understanding some conflicting messages from the leader of that party and in the state when it comes to how we view crime and justice-involved individuals," said Rep. Annie Menz (D-Norman).

"When it comes to immigration, that is a federal issue. They need to come up with a federal solution," said Rep. Cyndi Munson (D-Oklahoma City).