Trump's Mexico Wall: Bristol Sheriff Offers Inmates to Build It

FALL RIVER, MA — Longtime Bristol County Sheriff Thomas Hodgson on Wednesday offered up prison inmates to help build Donald Trump's wall against Mexico. Hodgson said it's part of his "Project N.I.C.E.," which stands for "National Inmates' Community Endeavors."

"I can think of no other project that would have such a positive impact on our inmates and our country than building this wall," Hodgson said his inauguration ceremony at Bristol Community College. Hodgson was re-elected to a fourth term in November.

The comments surprised Gov. Charlie Baker, who was in attendance for the inauguration. A spokesman told the Boston Globe the governor had not reviewed Hodgson's plan.

Hodgson continued, "Aside from learning and perfecting construction skills, the symbolism of these inmates building a wall to prevent crime in communities around the country, and to preserve jobs and work opportunities for them and other Americans upon release, can be very powerful.

"I am making a formal offer to President-elect Trump that inmates from Bristol County and others from across the nation ... to help build the wall."

Photo: Bristol County Sheriff Thomas Hodgson speaks to the media on January 4, 2017 about his plan to offer prison inmates to build Donald Trump's wall against Mexico. (Credit: Office of Sheriff Thomas Hodgson)