The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released new official data revealing an alarming 500% increase in assaults against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents while conducting immigration enforcement operations.
The information was released by the Undersecretary of Communications, Tricia McLaughlin, who emphasized that violence against officers has escalated to worrying levels, in a tense political context due to immigration policies in the United States.
One serious case this week
One of the most recent incidents occurred just this week.
An ICE officer was dragged more than 45 meters by a vehicle while attempting to arrest a person without legal immigration status, who was accused of sex crimes.
This event has been cited by authorities as an example of the dangers faced by agents during their operations.
“The work that the men and women of ICE do puts their lives at risk every day to protect American citizens,” McLaughlin stated.
Family members at risk
In addition to the increase in physical aggressions, a new and worrisome trend has been registered:
The public exposure (doxing) of personal data of ICE officers and their families.
This practice includes disclosing addresses, photos and other personal information on social networks with the intent to intimidate.
DHS has assured that those who engage in this practice will face severe criminal charges.
Federal authorities have directly targeted Democratic political figures such as:
Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Mayor Michelle Wu of Boston, Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota and Mayor Karen Bass of Los Angeles, accusing them of “demonizing” ICE.
According to Tricia McLaughlin, this type of speech has fostered a hate narrative that encourages attacks against officers.
El lenguaje violento de algunos políticos que promueven políticas santuario no solo es irresponsable, es peligroso
Commitment to the law
Buzzy
For its part, DHS, under the leadership of Secretary Kristi Noem, has reiterated that ICE enforcement operations will continue, despite any attempts to hinder them.
“If anyone lays a hand on an officer, they will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” Noem said in his statement.
This increase in violence and threats not only reflects the growing polarization around the migration issue.
But also the real risk that federal agents and their families face in the line of duty.
The administration has pledged to continue to strengthen measures to ensure their safety and to prosecute those who commit assaults or threats.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
