by Nick Delgado

Guam - Department of the Interior Assistant Secretary of Insular Affairs Tony Babauta reacts to Vice Speaker B.J. Cruz's letter that suggests the federal government pay more money or transfer FAS inmates to a federal prison. The Mangilao Correctional Facility currently houses more than 170 FAS citizens. Babauta says he has not yet reviewed the senator's letter, however has been discussing the issue with the U.S. Attorney's Office and other federal agencies.

"It's something we are working on in so far as compact impact monies there is no additional funding other than what is already being provided by Congress and divided among the effected jurisdictions so it's a matter of prioritization from any administration either in Hawaii or Guam or whoever else receives funding," he said.

The letter was also sent to Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo. DepCor supports Cruz's recommendation that will help to alleviate overcrowding and free up funds spent daily on FAS inmates.