The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has responded to allegations made by National Public Radio (NPR) that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers have engaged in racial profiling during enforcement actions against undocumented immigrants. DHS stated there is no evidence or record supporting these claims, which were attributed to anonymous sources.
“It’s shameful that NPR would run anonymous and unsubstantiated allegations to smear our brave law enforcement as they are facing a more than 1000% increase in assaults against them. What makes someone a target of ICE is if they are illegally in the U.S.—NOT their skin color, race, or ethnicity,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin.
According to DHS, Secretary Kristi Noem has directed ICE to focus on apprehending individuals considered threats to public safety, including those with criminal convictions or pending charges such as gang members, murderers, and rapists. The department reports that 70% of ICE arrests involve individuals who fall into these categories.
“Secretary Noem has unleashed ICE to target the worst of the worst—including gang members, murderers, and rapists. 70% of ICE arrests are of criminal illegal aliens who have been convicted or have pending charges in the U.S. President Trump and Secretary Noem are putting the American people first by removing illegal aliens who pose a threat to our communities,” McLaughlin added.
DHS also highlighted recent arrests in Washington, D.C., involving non-citizens with prior criminal records or multiple immigration violations. These include cases ranging from aggravated sexual battery and robbery to drug offenses and repeated illegal entry into the United States.
The department emphasized its ongoing efforts to support law and order in the nation’s capital so residents and visitors can feel safe.
