Wyoming National Guard To Help ICE Agency

On Monday, a spokesperson for Gov. Mark Gordon confirmed that Wyoming National Guard members will soon be assisting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in the detention and deportation of illegal immigrants.

Gordon joins 20 Republican governors enlisting their states' national guard troops in the detention of those who are in this country illegally.

Details have not been released on the number of troops.

“We are still determining exactly what that participation involves and are waiting for some more information from our federal partners,” Gordon’s spokesperson Michael Pearlman told WyoFile in an emailed statement Monday.

Much of the work may be administrative.

The New York Times reported on a memo from ICE officials that described using guard troops to process detention paperwork. However, there is discussion about using them for guard duty and possibly other tasks.

The New York Times reported that deployment could start this month.

A recent press release from Governor Gordon's desk also authorizes the cooperation of the Wyoming Highway Patrol.

“Wyoming has been firm in our commitment to helping secure the border, and this is another step in that process,” Governor Gordon said. “Our nation’s security depends upon effective immigration enforcement, and I am proud that our Wyoming Highway Patrol continues to support this effort and is now formalizing their commitment to this work through our agreement with ICE.”

President Donald Trump issued Executive Order (EO) 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion in January 2025. The EO directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to work with States to develop agreements under the 287(g) program that authorizes State and local law enforcement to perform functions of immigration officers.

 

YES - Illegal entry into America by sneaking across the border is a crime, as it is in all other countries. 

Illegal Entry:
Entering the U.S. without inspection by immigration officials or at a designated port of entry is a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine and/or imprisonment of up to six months, followed by deportation.

Illegal Re-entry:
If someone who has been deported or removed from the U.S. returns without permission, it's a felony, potentially leading to imprisonment for up to two years followed by deportation.

Other Violations:
Marriage fraud or establishing a commercial enterprise to evade immigration laws are also criminal offenses.

Civil vs. Criminal:
Overstaying a legal visa is different and handled in immigration court.