U.S. Budget Cuts Prompt Release of Illegal Immigrants From Detention Centers

A week before mandatory budget cuts go into effect, the Department of Homeland Security releases illegal immigrants being held in detention centers across the country as a cost saving measure.

That reportedly includes releases from detention centers in Louisiana, Texas and Florida.

Bryan Cox, public affairs officer for the New Orleans office of US Immigration and Customs enforcement was unable to provide FOX 8 with exact numbers of detainees released in Louisiana. He says several hundred detainees were released nationwide. Cox confirms that ICE administrators directed field officers to review the detained population to be sure it is line with available funding.

In an e-mailed statement, Cox says "As a result of this review, a number of detained aliens have been released across the country and placed on an appropriate, more cost-effective form of supervised release."

The Obama administration has made dire warnings of the impact of the sequestration. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano said the across-the-board cuts would impact the department's core operations, including border security and airport screening.


- Fox8 Live