President Donald Trump has named William “Billy” Marshall III as the next Director of the Federal Bureau of Prisons, citing his strong law enforcement background and leadership experience in West Virginia’s corrections system.
The announcement was made by Trump on his Truth Social platform, where he praised Marshall as a dedicated and experienced leader.
“I am pleased to announce that William ‘Billy’ Marshall III, of the Great State of West Virginia, a State I love and won SIX times, as the next Director of the Bureau of Prisons,” Trump posted. “Billy has a distinguished Law Enforcement career, rising from the ranks of the West Virginia State Police to serving as the current Commissioner of the West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation. He understands the struggles of our prisons better than anyone and will help fix our broken Criminal Justice System.”
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Marshall currently serves as Commissioner of the West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation, a position he was appointed to in 2023 by then-Governor Jim Justice. His promotion to the federal level has received praise from many West Virginia leaders who’ve worked closely with him.
Bipartisan Support from West Virginia Leaders
U.S. Senator Jim Justice, who appointed Marshall as state commissioner, expressed confidence in Trump’s pick.
“I was proud to put Billy in charge of our Department of Corrections in West Virginia, and we were able to turn it around after decades of decay,” Justice said on X (formerly Twitter). “I have full confidence in him and know he will do a great job.”
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Senator Shelley Moore Capito also voiced her support, saying, “Billy Marshall has done great things as Commissioner of the WV Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation, and I know that he will do even better things as the Director of the Federal Bureau of Prisons.”
Governor Patrick Morrisey added, “It’s outstanding to have a strong West Virginian in the Trump Administration who will champion the President’s law and order agenda.”
Local Law Enforcement Applauds the Appointment
Marshall’s nomination was met with enthusiasm from local law enforcement leaders who have known and worked with him over the years.
Wood County Sheriff Rick Woodyard, a longtime acquaintance, praised the decision.
“To see someone from the hometown hold a position like that is awesome,” Woodyard said. “He’s very much qualified. … I’ve known him for over 20 years, and it’s been an honor to work alongside him.”
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Jeff Sandy, former West Virginia Secretary of Homeland Security, also commended Marshall’s track record of effective leadership.
“When Bill retired from the West Virginia State Police, I hired him to head the corrections investigative unit, and he excelled,” Sandy said. “I promoted him to director of Juvenile Services, and later recommended him for commissioner. I’m extremely happy for him, his family, and our nation.”
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A Career Rooted in West Virginia
A graduate of Wahama High School, Marshall began his law enforcement career in 1992 when he joined the West Virginia State Police. His assignments took him across several counties, including Cabell, Jackson, and Wood. He later became part of the Parkersburg Narcotics Task Force and served as commander of State Police detachments in Pleasants and Wood counties.
He eventually moved into administrative roles, including three years in Charleston as the deputy director of traffic records. After returning to Parkersburg to lead the detachment, he retired in 2017.
Marshall’s dedication to youth was evident even outside of law enforcement, having served as an assistant football and basketball coach at Parkersburg South High School and Edison Middle School.
Committed to Service and Hard Work
In a 2023 interview, Marshall shared his thoughts on leading the state’s corrections division.
“I don’t have all the answers, but I certainly have the work ethic and the desire,” he said. “It’s a tremendous challenge, but I’m going to put in the work.”
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While the appointment of the Federal Bureau of Prisons director typically falls under the responsibility of the U.S. Attorney General, not the president, this move highlights Trump’s direct involvement and trust in Marshall’s capabilities. Notably, the role does not require Senate confirmation.
With decades of service, a reputation for integrity, and strong support from state and national leaders, Billy Marshall III is poised to bring his West Virginia values and hands-on experience to one of the most critical positions in the U.S. justice system.
