Gov. Pillen Confirms ICE Facility to Open in McCook

August 19, 2025

McCOOK, Neb. – Governor Jim Pillen on Tuesday announced a new partnership with the federal government to convert the McCook Work Ethic Camp into a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility. The plan will also involve members of the Nebraska National Guard and State Patrol assisting with federal immigration enforcement.

Pillen said the move is part of a larger effort to enhance public safety by targeting “criminals and terrorists” who have crossed the southern border. Drawing on his own visits to the border, the governor described the situation as an “atrocity” and voiced strong support for President Trump and Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem’s immigration agenda.

“The highest calling you have is to keep us safe,” Pillen said. “The state of Nebraska is proud to be part of President Trump’s team.”

Facility Details

The McCook site will have capacity for approximately 300 detainees. According to Pillen, the facility will house “minimal to low risk” individuals, not violent offenders or gang members such as MS-13. Most detainees are expected to remain in McCook between five and 50 days before being processed and deported.

The facility’s current staff of about 85 employees will remain in place under a federal contract. Pillen added that the state would provide financial support if the transition created new burdens for local government.

When asked about the possibility of juveniles being housed at the facility, Pillen said he was not sure about the details but suggested that “there are 13- and 14-year-old criminals” who might fall under ICE’s jurisdiction.

National Guard and State Patrol Support

As part of the agreement, 20 Nebraska National Guard troops will assist ICE with administrative, transportation, and logistical duties. In addition, six members of the Nebraska State Patrol will undergo a 40-hour training program to work alongside ICE agents.

Local Response

McCook Mayor Linda Taylor said she first learned of the plan during an informal meeting with the governor and local officials on Saturday, August 16.

“I know our community has questions,” Taylor said at Tuesday’s press conference. “We share those questions with our residents who deserve clear and timely answers. We will work cooperatively with the Governor’s team and with ICE to learn more and to communicate to everyone what we are learning.”

Retired Marine Dr. Jason Hilker, a McCook resident with a doctorate in Strategic Leadership, said the town must make sure it benefits if the facility comes.

“This could bring government jobs and contracting opportunities into McCook,” Hilker said. “But if the state is taking the profit margin while the community shoulders the impact, that’s bad business. Local leaders need to make sure McCook gets something back in return.”

Next Steps

Pillen said Nebraska will enter into a one-year contract with the federal government, with the possibility of the arrangement lasting the duration of Trump’s term. Court proceedings for detainees are expected to be conducted primarily via Zoom with federal judges.

He stressed that any additional costs to the community would be covered by the state. “If there’s any encumbrance to the county or to the community, that’s on the state of Nebraska,” Pillen said.

Closing Remarks

Pillen acknowledged that the announcement came together quickly, explaining that state officials did not know the plan was a “significant reality” until the week prior. He closed by urging Nebraskans to show appreciation for law enforcement and to recognize the “privilege it is to live in the United States of America.”

The governor framed McCook’s role as “a historic part in keeping our country safe.”