DHS Reliance on Private Prisons Must Also Be Reviewed
(WASHINGTON) – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, sent a letter to John Roth, Inspector General of the Department of Homeland Security, on the Department’s reliance on private prisons. In light of the Department of Justice's recent decision to terminate or not renew its contracts with privately operated prisons, Ranking Member Thompson called on the DHS Inspector General to conduct an immediate review of DHS’ use of private prisons. Thompson asked the IG to determine whether DHS should reduce its reliance on private prisons.
In the letter, Congressman Thompson states:
“It is imperative that you immediately initiate a review to determine whether DHS should reduce its dependence on private prisons. In light of the recent findings about the significant safety, security and cost issues associated with utilizing these private prisons, it is necessary for DHS to know whether or not these large-scale contractual agreements are cost effective and they maintain security and safety.”
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Media contact: Adam Comis at (202) 225-9978
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