A district attorney in Mississippi announced that a bill introduced in the state Legislature by state Rep. Justin Keen this week would pay bounty hunters a cash reward for helping catch illegal immigrants.
In a Wednesday statement, DeSoto County District Attorney Matthew Barton called House Bill 1484 "a vital step in assisting our law enforcement agencies to better enforce immigration laws and ensure that those in this country unlawfully are sent back to their country of origin."
The bill would create the Illegal Alien Certified Bounty Hunter Program, which would pay a $1,000 reward to registered bounty hunters for each successful deportation they help facilitate, according to a press release from Barton's office. Funded by the general assembly and administered by the state treasurer, the reward is intended to encourage collaboration between law enforcement and private citizens.
Keen, the Republican who introduced the bill, emphasized the legislation's importance in enhancing public safety in Mississippi and supporting President Donald Trump's immigration policies.
"This legislation is about keeping Mississippi communities safe," Keen said in a statement. "We've seen firsthand the danger posed by bad actors and violent criminals who enter this country illegally, like the innocent life of Laken Riley.
"President Trump's administration has made it clear that deporting illegal immigrants is a priority, and we are proud to do our part here in Mississippi to help support his agenda and protect our citizens," he added.
Barton pointed to the executive orders that Trump rolled out after taking office this week, saying the president "immediately recognized the emergency at our borders."
"This legislation builds upon that foundation, empowering local leaders and communities to support federal efforts in protecting our citizens," he said. "Legal immigration is a cornerstone of America, and we must ensure that our borders are secure and that the safety of Mississippians comes first."
Since being sworn in on Monday, Trump has moved quickly on immigration, signing executive orders this week declaring illegal immigration an "invasion" and reinstating the "Remain in Mexico" policy he instituted in his first term.
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