Standish, Michigan - the new Guantanamo Bay?

U.S. media reports are indicating that a soon-to-close maximum security prison in Standish in Northern Michigan is under consideration to accept 229 terror suspects currently held at Guantánamo Bay.

Standish and a military penitentiary at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas are the two locations mentioned as being under consideration.

Municipal officials in Standish, population 1,581, are quoted as aaying they like the idea.

Civilian and military trials could be held there as well.

The following statement was issued Monday by Congressman Bart Stupak from Michigan's 1st congressional district.

************************* Stupak statememt on consideration of Standish maximum security prison to house Guantanamo detainess

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Bart Stupak (D-Menominee) released the following statement regarding the announcement that Standish Maximum Security Prison is being considered to house detainees from Guantanamo Bay.

“I have been advised by the Office of Management and Budget that Standish Maximum Security Prison is one option being considered to house detainees from Guantanamo Bay. I have spoken with local officials, who have indicated a willingness to listen to a proposal the administration might put forward.

"Officials from the departments of defense, homeland security and justice will be visiting sites under consideration over the next few weeks. It is important to remember that Standish is just one option under consideration and no decision has been made. I expect to learn more about a proposal after all site visits are completed. Any proposal must have a comprehensive security analysis and economic and job creation implications. I will work with local and state officials to gauge their level of support before a final decision is made."

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