The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued a statement addressing media reports that it claims are unfairly demonizing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers. These reports focus on operations in Los Angeles, California, aimed at removing criminal illegal aliens from the streets.
The DHS highlighted several headlines it described as false, which it says misrepresent federal law enforcement efforts. Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stated, "These types of disgusting smears are designed to demonize and villainize our brave ICE law enforcement. This kind of garbage has led to a more than 400 percent increase in the assaults on ICE officers."
McLaughlin also addressed an incident involving a U.S. citizen's arrest, stating, "The facts are a U.S. citizen was arrested because he ASSAULTED U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agents." She emphasized that Secretary Noem has been clear about prosecuting anyone who assaults law enforcement officers.
Additionally, the DHS refuted claims that ICE is operating in homeless shelters, emergency rooms, and schools. A senior DHS official remarked that such rhetoric from local politicians "demonizes the brave men and women of law enforcement."
Assistant Secretary McLaughlin further denied allegations regarding operations at Douglas Park targeting nannies and caregivers: "Claims that ICE has conducted operations at Douglas Park to target and arrest nannies and caregivers are unequivocally FALSE."
The DHS insists its operations focus on removing individuals they describe as "the worst of the worst," including suspected terrorists and violent criminals.
