The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has reported a significant increase in assaults on Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials. From January 21 to July 14, there has been an 830 percent rise in attacks compared to the same period last year.
"Brave ICE law enforcement are risking their lives every day to keep our communities safe from the worst of the worst criminals," stated DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. She emphasized that ICE officers are removing dangerous individuals from communities despite facing increased threats inspired by political rhetoric. "It is reprehensible that our officers are facing this threat while simply doing their jobs and enforcing the law."
Recent incidents have highlighted tensions between ICE officials and some members of Congress. Representative Salud Carbajal (D-CA) allegedly exposed an ICE employee's business card to a crowd, resulting in an attack where the official was injured. Additionally, Representative LaMonica McIver (D-NJ) has been indicted on federal assault charges for physically attacking an ICE officer at a detention facility.
In Portland, local antifa-affiliated groups have reportedly doxed and threatened ICE officers by posting personal information online. One officer's home was targeted with trash and offensive signs.
The DHS also criticized media outlets for spreading false narratives about federal immigration enforcement efforts. An incident involving the rescue of children from potential exploitation was misreported as a death in custody, according to DHS officials.
These developments come amid ongoing debates over immigration policies and enforcement practices in the United States.
