Judge Denies Injunction in WEC Lawsuit — Case Still Moving Forward

October 27, 2025

McCOOK Neb.— A Red Willow County District Judge has denied a request from 13 McCook residents and former State Senator DiAnna Schimek to temporarily block the State of Nebraska from converting the Work Ethic Camp (WEC) into a federal ICE detention facility.

Judge Patrick Heng ruled that Nebraska Department of Corrections Director Rob Jeffreys has the authority to move forward under the agreement between the State of Nebraska and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. He also found no violation of separation of powers, allowing the state to continue preparations to house ICE detainees at the WEC site.

However, the judge also denied a separate motion by Gov. Jim Pillen and Director Jeffreys to dismiss the lawsuit altogether, meaning the case itself will continue. Heng noted that the plaintiffs acted promptly and have legal standing as Nebraska taxpayers to challenge the project.

In short — the injunction was denied, but the lawsuit remains active as the state moves ahead with its plans for the facility.