ICE official says majority of immigration arrests target criminals and threats to safety

---

Full Story

Border Czar Tom Homan defended federal immigration enforcement, stating that most arrests target criminal offenders and those posing national security risks. He said that claims of indiscriminate raids are misleading and part of a broader “false narrative.”

Homan said that 70% of individuals arrested by ICE are criminals, while 30% are identified as threats to public safety. He emphasized that ICE operations are targeted, not random.

MEDIA REPORTING

See how news sources on all sides are covering this story.

Left 30% | Right 36% | Center 24% | Unrated 9%

The Context

Immigration and Customs Enforcement focuses on identifying and removing individuals with outstanding warrants or prior convictions. Homan defended the agency’s mission as aligned with federal law enforcement priorities.

Critics often accuse ICE of overreach and targeting peaceful illegal immigrants with no criminal history. Homan disputed that view, asserting that most enforcement actions follow legal protocols.

Federal law allows ICE to detain and deport non-citizens who commit crimes or violate immigration laws. The agency’s authority is grounded in longstanding immigration statutes.

Supporters of ICE operations argue that enforcement keeps communities safer and deters illegal entry. They say focusing on criminals upholds the rule of law.

Detractors argue that ICE tactics sometimes sweep up non-criminals and separate families unnecessarily. They call for greater oversight and reform of immigration enforcement practices.

Homan stated the agency’s approach is based on risk prioritization, not indiscriminate deportation. He maintained that the narrative of ICE as abusive is not supported by operational data.