The U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced on March 30 that a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer was attacked during an attempt to arrest Xa Lee, a criminal illegal alien from Laos, in Sacramento, California. According to the department, Lee remains at large following the incident.
The situation highlights ongoing concerns about the safety of law enforcement officers as they carry out immigration-related arrests. The department said there has been a significant increase in vehicular attacks against ICE officers.
Acting Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis said, “On March 25, 2026, ICE conducted a targeted vehicle stop to arrest Xa Lee, a fugitive and criminal illegal alien from Laos. He was previously convicted of vehicle theft, stolen property, conspiracy, petty theft, two DUIs, resisting an officer, battery, and felony possession of a firearm. During the vehicle stop, Lee attempted to flee and hit an ICE officer with his vehicle. The officer, thankfully, did not sustain injuries. During the incident, ICE officers pulled out their tasers. He fled the scene and remains at large.” Bis added that this is part of “a disturbing trend of vehicle attacks” and called on the public to report any sightings by contacting ICE at (866) 347-2423.
According to DHS statements in the release's background information section, Lee had been issued a final order of removal by an Immigration Judge in 2010 and was placed on the Alternative to Detention Program prior to this incident.
DHS also stated that recent actions by politicians have included webinars and resources providing guidance for undocumented immigrants on how to avoid or resist ICE encounters at homes or workplaces.
In its statement concluding the announcement about this case and broader issues facing law enforcement personnel working for ICE nationwide, DHS urged politicians and members of media organizations "to turn the temperature down" regarding calls for resistance against federal agents.
