May 08, 2020

AG Barr Tells Manchin No More Transfers Of Out-Of-State Inmates To West Virginia

Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) received assurances from U.S. Attorney General (AG) William Barr that no more new out-of-state inmates will be transferred to FCI Gilmer or FCC Hazelton during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This morning I received confirmation from AG Barr that West Virginia facilities will no longer receive transfers of new out-of-state inmates. Many of these inmates were being transferred from COVID-19 hotspots across the country, putting the safety of our brave correctional officers and their families, citizens, and inmates at risk. I am pleased that AG Barr has heard our concerns and will be making changes that will help FCC Hazelton and FCI Gilmer slow the spread of COVID-19 in their facilities. I will continue to work with BOP officials, correctional officer representatives, and AG Barr to ensure this issue is managed correctly so no more West Virginians are put at risk.”

Senator Manchin’s efforts to halt these transfers are outlined below:

·         On May 4, 2020 Senator Manchin calls BOP decision to transfer new out-of-state inmates to West Virginia reckless after first positive COVID-19 case confirmed at FCI Gilmer.

·         On April 28, 2020, Senator Manchin raised concerns about the transfer of new out-of-state inmates to the FCC Hazelton and FCI Gilmer facilities in West Virginia on a call with U.S. Attorney General William Barr.

·         On April 25, 2020, Senator Manchin urged U.S. Attorney General (AG) William Barr to immediately halt plans to send new out-of-state inmates from COVID-19 hotspot regions to FCC Hazelton and FCI Gilmer to quarantine.

·         On April 25, 2020, Senator Manchin strongly opposed the transfer of new out-of-state prisoners to FCC Hazelton and FCI Gilmer to quarantine.