RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - Gov. Bob McDonnell is criticizing Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano for not acting on the state's request to allow state police to enforce some immigration laws.

Continue reading

McDonnell's administration submitted the request in August. On Friday, he released a letter he sent to Napolitano last month asking for immediate approval.

McDonnell said 10 months is "an unacceptable time to wait for a simple answer."

Several Virginia localities already have the 287(g) agreements, which allow them to assist in removing illegal immigrants. McDonnell said the state is asking for 28 state troopers to be trained and granted authority to track criminal illegal immigrants who engage in violent crimes, gang offenses and terrorism.

Napolitano's office did not immediately return a message seeking comment.