U.S. Department of Homeland Security Weekly Digest Bulletin

DHS Releases New Nationwide and International Ads Warning Illegal Aliens to Self-Deport and Stay Out 04/21/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs    DHS Releases New Nationwide and International Ads Warning Illegal Aliens to Self-Deport and Stay Out “If you are here illegally, you’re next. You will be fined nearly $1,000 a day, imprisoned, and deported.” - Secretary Noem WASHINGTON - Today, Secretary Noem announced new nationwide and international multimillion-dollar ads, exposing the heinous crimes of criminal illegal aliens and warning others to leave America otherwise they will be fined nearly $1,000 per day, imprisoned, and deported. It directs illegal aliens to download and use the CPB Home app to voluntarily self-deport before they are caught and prevented from ever returning to the United States. “Child molesters. Rapists. Murderers. These are just a few of the illegal alien scumbags who have been fined, imprisoned, and deported thanks to President Trump,” said Secretary Kristi Noem. “President Trump and I have a clear message to those in our country illegally: LEAVE NOW. If you do not self-deport, we will hunt you down, arrest you, and deport you. Download the FREE CBP Home app today to self-deport.” This series of ads will run on broadcast television and online, across the United States and internationally. It will be broadcast in multiple languages. Ads will be hyper-targeted, including through social media, text message and digital to reach criminal illegal aliens hiding from law enforcement in the United States. The ads are also targeted toward an international audience to deter any migrant from attempting to cross into the United States illegally. Watch the 30 and 60 second ads here. # # # DHS, USCIS, DOGE Overhaul Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements Database 04/22/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs DHS, USCIS, DOGE Overhaul Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements Database WASHINGTON – Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, alongside USCIS and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), announced a comprehensive optimization of the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) database to ensure a single, reliable source for verifying non-citizen status nationwide.  This overhaul eliminates fees for database searches, breaks down silos for accurate results, streamlines mass status checks, and integrates criminal records, immigration timelines, and addresses. Automatic status updates and a user-friendly interface will empower federal, state, local, territorial, and tribal agencies to prevent non-citizens from exploiting taxpayer benefits or voting illegally.  “Illegal aliens have exploited outdated systems to defraud Americans and taint our elections,” said a spokesperson for DHS. “Under Secretary Noem’s leadership, this revamped SAVE system will ensure government officials can swiftly verify legal status, halting entitlements and voter fraud.”  DHS will provide ongoing updates to stakeholders as the SAVE Optimization Plan progresses.  # # # MEDIA ADVISORY: DHS and Country Star John Rich Team Up for Urgent Livestream about Protecting Kids from Online Predators 04/23/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs MEDIA ADVISORY DHS and Country Star John Rich Team Up for Urgent Livestream about Protecting Kids from Online Predators WASHINGTON — Wednesday night, Know2Protect — the national campaign dedicated to combating child exploitation and online threats — will host a high-impact livestream event featuring Department of Homeland Security Special Agent Dennis Fetting and country music star John Rich. Together, they will discuss how families and communities can better protect children from online predators—and what steps we can all take to stay informed and proactive. EVENT DETAILS WHAT: Livestream: Protecting Kids Online – A Conversation with John Rich & HSI WHEN: Tuesday, April 23, 2025, 7:00 pm CT / 8:00 pm ET WHERE: Watch on X @Know2Protect and @JohnRich WHO: Hosted by Know2Protect with guests: Special Agent Dennis Fetting, DHS Homeland Security Investigations John Rich, Award-Winning Country Musician  MEDIA INVITATION Media are encouraged to: Tune in and share the livestream with their audiences Schedule post-event interviews with DHS and HSI leadership to dive deeper into the realities of online child exploitation and what law enforcement is doing to stop it To request interviews or additional information, please contact: Tanya Roman at 202-963-9738. Join the conversation. Share the message. Let’s unite to protect children from online predators. Together we can stop online child exploitation. Follow the countdown and event updates: @Know2Protect # # # CCHT Chronicle April 2025 04/24/2025   View as a webpage The monthly Newsletter of the Center for Countering Human Trafficking April 2025 Blue Campaign Corner Spring Into Action: Child Abuse Prevention Month April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, and it serves as an important reminder of the urgent need to protect youth from both abuse and exploitation. You can play a key role in protecting children against human trafficking by uniting with the Blue Campaign and downloading educational materials, reporting suspicious activity, and sharing cautionary information with the young people in your life and community. Visit our youth and human trafficking page to learn how you can help stop human trafficking and provide a safer community for us all. Blue Campaign also offers student and youth leader resources that provide tips for how to talk to children and teens about this threat. One Step Can Make a Difference Children and teens are vulnerable to exploitation by human traffickers, especially if they lack social safety nets. In an actual case out of Oxon Hill, Maryland, a 12-year-old girl, ran away from home, met a man at a party and sought his help to find a place to stay. Tragically, this man was a trafficker, and a long-time member of a gang. By the very next day, the minor victim was held captive and forced into the commercial sex trade for over three months. Thankfully, she was eventually recovered by the authorities. Her story is a powerful reminder of how much of a difference we can make by staying aware and reporting potential warning signs of trafficking when we see them.   Trafficked Youth: How to Spot the Signs Human trafficking can happen to anyone. While the signs may not be obvious, they can be better identified when you are aware of what to look for. Here are some indicators to be on the lookout for in children:  Do they appear disconnected from others and show signs of mental or physical abuse? Have they stopped attending school? Do they appear to be coached on what to say? Do they have freedom of movement? Can they freely leave where they live? Have they had a sudden or dramatic change in behavior? Share these signs with the young people in your community to ensure they can remain vigilant against suspicious behaviors—both for themselves and others around them. You can report human trafficking by calling the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888. Interested in learning more? Blue Campaign offers additional information on impactful ways you can take action. In the Field An Heirloom Bracelet Returned, and Justice Served: HSI Charlotte Brings Closure in Forced Labor Case A victim of forced labor received her family heirloom—a diamond bracelet—back in her hands for the first time in years, thanks to the work of HSI Charlotte. The victim's former employer stole the bracelet and used it as collateral on a fraudulent debt contract the victim was forced to sign, claiming she owed $180,000. The recovery and return of the bracelet marked a significant moment of closure in a years-long investigation and prosecution led by ICE HSI Charlotte. The case resulted in the federal conviction of Thuy Tien Thuy Luong, the owner of a nail salon in Davidson, North Carolina, for forced labor. In June 2018, ICE HSI Charlotte and the Davidson Police Department began investigating reports of abuse at Luxury Nails Salon. One of the employees, a Vietnamese woman, came forward to say she was being physically assaulted by Luong and held under a false debt contract. She showed visible signs of repeated physical abuse and was too afraid to leave the job, fearing more mistreatment. Investigators later executed a search warrant at the salon, where they found a contract stating the woman owed Luong $180,000. Luong admitted to forcing the victim to sign. The victim's bracelet—stolen by Luong—was recovered during the investigation and held as evidence. With the help of the DOJ's Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, the property was recently cleared and returned without delay. "The defendant in this case stole the bracelet and used it as leverage to control the victim," said Special Agent Kelly Harrison who led the case. "It was an honor to investigate this case and to return this property to the victim." In January 2021, Luong was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for forced labor. In January 2025, the 4th Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed her conviction but ordered the case to be re-sentenced, noting the trial court had not applied certain aggravating factors at the initial sentencing. This case is a reminder that forced labor can happen in any setting—and that through persistence and collaboration, justice and dignity can be restored. At the Center Welcome Dr. Tasha Reid Hippolyte: CCHT's New Acting Deputy Assistant Director The DHS Center for Countering Human Trafficking recently welcomed Dr. Tasha Reid Hippolyte as the Center's new acting Deputy Assistant Director. A dynamic and seasoned leader within DHS, acting DAD Hippolyte brings a wealth of experience, vision, and commitment to HSI and the Center's mission of combating human trafficking and preventing the exploitation of vulnerable populations. (A)DAD Hippolyte is known for her strategic foresight and ability to bring clarity and direction to complex challenges—a quality that has served her well across multiple leadership roles at DHS. With nearly two decades of federal service, (A)DAD Hippolyte has built a reputation for excellence in strategic leadership, most recently in her role as Deputy Assistant Director of HSI's Office of Administrative Operations. Her prior assignments include Deputy Assistant Secretary for DHS Policy's Office of Trade and Economic Security and chief of staff for CBP's Office of Field Operations. With her extensive experience in leadership roles, Dr. Hippolyte brings valuable expertise in trade policy, security, and operations. In her new role, (A)DAD Hippolyte will help drive the CCHT's operational priorities, shape interagency coordination, and advance strategic initiatives across DHS and the U.S. government. In addition, she will support the Center's work across key areas including interagency initiatives, training and outreach programs, and the Blue Campaign. Follow us!  @DHSBlueCampaign on X, Instagram and Facebook and @DHS Center for Countering Human Trafficking on LinkedIn Milwaukee Judge Obstructed Arrest of Illegal Alien Accused of Strangulation, Battery, and Domestic Abuse 04/25/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs Milwaukee Judge Obstructed Arrest of Illegal Alien Accused of Strangulation, Battery, and Domestic Abuse  WASHINGTON – Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan was arrested for obstructing the arrest of Eduardo Flores-Ruiz. This criminal illegal alien has a laundry list of violent criminal charges including strangulation and suffocation, battery, and domestic abuse. Ruiz has illegally entered the U.S. twice. On April 18, 2025, ICE assisted by deputized FBI law enforcement officials carried out a targeted operation to arrest Ruiz at the Milwaukee County Courthouse. Judge Dugan intentionally misdirected ICE agents away from this criminal illegal alien to obstruct the arrest and try to help him evade arrest. Thankfully, our FBI partners chased down this illegal alien, arrested him and removed him from American communities.     Statement From Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin: “This criminal illegal alien has a laundry list of violent criminal charges including strangulation and suffocation, battery, and domestic abuse. Ruiz illegally entered the US twice. “Since President Trump was inaugurated, activist judges have tried to obstruct President Trump and the American people’s mandate to make America safe and secure our homeland— but this judge’s actions to shield an accused violent criminal illegal alien from justice is shocking and shameful. “We are thankful for our partners at the FBI for helping remove this accused criminal from America’s streets. If you are here illegally and break the law, we will hunt you down, arrest you and lock you up. That's a promise.” # # # DHS Sweeps into Action to Protect Child from Tren De Aragua Parents 04/26/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs   DHS Sweeps into Action to Protect Child from Tren De Aragua Parents  WASHINGTON – Despite claims from the Venezuelan government that the U.S. “kidnapped” a child, the truth is DHS took action because both her parents are part of Tren De Aragua.     The child’s father, Maiker Espinoza-Escalona is a lieutenant of Tren De Aragua who oversees homicides, drug sales, kidnappings, extortion, sex trafficking and operates a torture house. The child’s mother, Yorely Escarleth Bernal Inciarte oversees recruitment of young women for drug smuggling and prostitution. These criminal illegal aliens entered the country illegally and had final orders of removal from a judge.     Thanks to President Trump and Secretary Noem, both of these criminal gang members have been removed from our country.     In partnership with the Department of Health and Human Services, the child was taken off the deportation flight manifest for her safety and welfare. The child remains in the care and custody of the Office of Refugee Resettlement and is currently placed with a foster family.    The previous administration allowed many children who came across the border unaccompanied to be placed with sponsors who were actually smugglers and sex traffickers. In less than 100 days, Secretary Noem and Secretary Kennedy have already reunited over 5,000 unaccompanied children with a relative or safe guardian.    Statement attributable to a senior DHS official:    “Thanks to President Trump, these Tren De Aragua gang members have been removed from our country. Due to the violent criminal activities of the parents including operating a torture house, sex trafficking, and kidnapping the child was removed from their custody. We will not allow this child to be abused and continue to be exposed to criminal activity that endangers her safety.     President Trump and Secretary Noem take their responsibility to protect children seriously and will continue to work with federal law enforcement and the Department of Health and Human Services to ensure that children are safe from abuse, sexual exploitation, and trafficking.”    # # # Deputy Secretary Edgar Joins HSI Drug Trafficking Warrant Operation in Los Angeles 04/27/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs Deputy Secretary Edgar Joins HSI Drug Trafficking Warrant Operation in Los Angeles Deputy Secretary Edgar also meets with Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) partners to discuss delivering President Trump’s priorities Los Angeles, CA – On Friday, Homeland Security Deputy Secretary Troy Edgar joined Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Los Angeles in a warrant operation that resulted in the arrest of a suspected drug trafficker. “Day in and day out, our HSI agents are empowered under the leadership of President Trump and Secretary Noem to remove gang members, criminals, and drugs from our communities,” said Deputy Secretary Edgar. “I’m thankful for the frontline heroes who keep Americans safe from the worst of the worst law breakers.” The HSI Los Angeles Special Response Team executed three state search warrants that resulted in the arrest of wanted fugitive. Search warrants were executed in La Puente, Pomona, and Compton, California regarding an ongoing drug trafficking investigation for cocaine, fentanyl, and methamphetamine.  Pedro Sainz Minjarez was arrested for an outstanding warrant regarding possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance and conspiracy. This is a joint investigation involving the Riverside Sheriff’s Office, United States Customs and Border Protection, and the United States Marshals Service. Deputy Secretary Edgar, coleader of the HSTF, also led a meeting Friday with partners in Los Angeles to discuss delivering President Trump’s priorities. Under the HSTF, the Department of Homeland Security and Department of Justice have joined in a historic partnership to tackle crime and keep Americans safe.  Participants of the meeting included representatives from the Los Angeles HSI, ATF, ERO, FBI, and U.S. Attorney offices. # # # 100 Days of The Most Secure Border in American History 04/28/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs 100 Days of The Most Secure Border in American History A REMARKABLE, HISTORIC TURNAROUND The Biden Administration refused to enforce our nation’s laws when it came to border security. This allowed millions of illegal aliens – including criminals, gang members, and terrorists – into our country. But in just 100 days, President Trump and Secretary Noem have not only closed our border but have delivered the most secure border in American history. U.S. Customs and Border Protection now has total control of the border. Daily border encounters are down by 93%. Encounters with gotaways – the top threat to public safety – are down by 95%. And migrant crossings are down by 99.99%. THE LAST ADMINISTRATION’S UNSUSTAINABLE NUMBERS Average Border Encounters: Under Biden, the average number of monthly border encounters was nearly 160,000. The daily average peaked at 15,000. In total, CBP recorded approximately 11 million border encounters over the course of Biden’s four years. Deadly Drug Numbers: In the last four years, nearly 64,000 pounds of fentanyl was seized at the southern border –enough fentanyl to kill 14 billion people. Abysmally Low Arrest Numbers: In Fiscal Year 2024, the Biden Administration made just 113,000 administrative arrests. From January 20 to April 1 of 2021, the last administration released over 184,000 illegal aliens into the country. THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION’S HISTORIC ACHIEVEMENTS AT THE BORDER Average Border Encounters: March of 2025 saw the lowest monthly number of border encounters in recorded history, at less than 7,200. The lowest daily number of border encounters, in February of 2025, fell to less than 200. Drug Decreases: In March of 2025, fentanyl traffic at the southern border fell by 54% compared to March of 2024. Following President Trump’s negotiation efforts, Mexico cracked down on drug traffickers and seized 1,500 kilograms of fentanyl – the largest in Mexico’s history – and has arrested over 6,000 drug traffickers. Skyrocketing Arrests and Deportations: In the first 100 days of the Trump Administration, we have arrested over 151,000 illegal aliens and have deported over 135,000. This includes 600 members of Tren De Aragua who have been arrested or deported, as well as thousands of MS-13 and 18th Street Gang members who have fled the country. These numbers have already surpassed the entirety of Fiscal Year 2024, and we’re just 100 days into this administration. OPERATION TIDAL WAVE Operation Tidal Wave is a preview of what is to come around the country: large scale operations that employ our state and local law enforcement partners to get criminal illegal aliens off our streets. This is a first-of-its-kind, multi-agency immigration enforcement operation under the 287(g) program, coordinated by ICE with state and federal partners. In less than 100 days, the Trump Administration has seen a 317% increase in federal/state partner agreements. This multi-day operation has so far resulted in 780 illegal aliens apprehended in just four days. Arrests include members of MS-13, murderers, rapists, drug traffickers and human rights abusers. # # # President Trump Appoints 20 New Members to Federal Emergency Management Agency Review Council 04/28/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs President Trump Appoints 20 New Members to Federal Emergency Management Agency Review Council WASHINGTON—Today, President Donald J. Trump appointed 20 members to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Review Council, a bipartisan group tasked with reforming and streamlining the nation’s emergency management and disaster response system. Secretary Kristi Noem and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth will co-chair the council.  The FEMA Review Council is charged with streamlining operations and ensuring FEMA delivers rapid, efficient, and mission-focused relief to Americans in need. Appointed Members: Co-Chair: Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem Co-Chair: Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth Greg Abbott, Governor, State of Texas Phil Bryant, Former Governor, State of Mississippi Jane Castor, Mayor, City of Tampa, Florida Mark Cooper, Former Chief of Staff, Governor John Bel Edwards Rosie Cordero-Stutz, Sheriff, Miami-Dade County Evan Greenberg, CEO, Chubb Limited Kevin Guthrie, Executive Director, Florida Division of Emergency Management Nim Kidd, Chief, Texas Division of Emergency Management Michael Whatley, Chairman, Republican National Committee Glenn Youngkin, Governor, Commonwealth of Virginia Robert J. Fenton, Jr., Regional Administrator, Federal Emergency Management Agency About the FEMA Review Council On January 24, 2025, the President established the Council to Assess the Federal Emergency Management Agency through Executive Order 14180, Council to Assess the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The goal of the FEMA Review Council is to advise the President, through the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs, the Assistant to the President for Homeland Security, and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, on the existing ability of FEMA to capably and impartially address disasters occurring within the United States and shall advise the President on all recommended changes related to FEMA to best serve the national interest. # # # 100 Days of Making America Safe Again 04/29/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs   100 Days of Making America Safe Again  “President Trump said from the start: criminal illegals have no place in our homeland. He is keeping his promise.” – Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem  WASHINGTON – In just 100 days, President Trump and Secretary Noem have delivered major victories addressing the crisis at the southern border, removing violent criminal illegal aliens from American communities, and stopping the flow of illicit drugs into our homeland. He’s accomplished more in 100 days than most presidents achieve in an entire term.  PROMISES MADE, PROMISES KEPT:    Thanks to President Trump, we have the most secure border in American history.   On day one, President Trump declared a national emergency at the southern border.  President Trump immediately reinstated “Remain in Mexico” and ended catch and release.   Daily border encounters have plunged 95% since President Trump took office.   Under President Trump’s leadership, Secretary Noem and Secretary Kennedy have reunited nearly 5,000 unaccompanied children with a safe relative or guardian.   Migrants are turning BACK before they even reach our border— migration through Panama’s Darien Gap is down 99.99%.    President Trump is finishing the border wall. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) already has 85 miles of new construction either planned or under construction.  United States (U.S.) Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) have seized nearly 232,000 pounds of fentanyl and other illicit drugs—stopping them from ever reaching American communities.  President Trump is fulfilling his promise to carry out mass deportations—starting with the worst of the worst.   The Trump Administration empowered our brave men and women in law enforcement to use common sense to do their jobs effectively.   DHS repealed Biden-era rules that allowed criminal aliens to hide from law enforcement in places like schools and churches to avoid arrest.    DHS returned to using the term “illegal alien” which is the statutory language. President Trump will not allow political correctness to hinder law enforcement.   President Trump mobilized the federal government to help with immigration enforcement. DHS deputized the Texas National Guard, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Bureau of Prisons, U.S. Marshals, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, members of the State Department and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to assist with immigration operations.    Operation Tidal Wave, the first 287(g) enforcement operation coordinated with state and federal law enforcement partners, resulted in over 800 arrests. DHS has secured 579 signed agreements with state and local partnerships under 287(g). President Trump and Secretary Noem are empowering state and local law enforcement to get these criminal illegal aliens off our streets.  The Trump Administration has arrested over 158,000 illegal aliens in 2025 alone, including more than 600 members of Tren de Aragua.   Under President Trump, U.S. Immigration Customs and Enforcement (ICE) is targeting the worst of the worst, 75% of their arrests are criminal illegal aliens with convictions or pending charges.   To fulfill President Trump’s promise to carry out mass deportations, the administration is now detaining some of the most dangerous illegal aliens, including violent criminals and members of terrorist gangs, at Guantanamo Bay.    At President Trump’s direction, DHS deported nearly 300 Tren de Aragua and MS-13 terrorists to the Terrorism Confinement Center (CECOT) Prison in El Salvador, where they no longer pose a threat to the American people.  At President Trump’s direction, Secretary Noem launched a multimillion-dollar nationwide and international ad campaign, urging illegal aliens to leave the U.S. voluntarily or face deportation with no chance of return.    President Trump ended the CBP One app that allowed more than one million aliens to illegally enter the U.S. The Trump Administration replaced this disastrous program with the CBP Home app, which has a new self-deportation reporting feature for aliens illegally in the country. So far, thousands of illegal aliens have used the app to self-deport.   The Trump Administration is enforcing the Alien Registration Act which requires aliens to register with the federal government. If illegal aliens fail to comply, they face fines and imprisonment.    Deportations have already exceeded 142,000—this is just the beginning.  President Trump is putting the safety of Americans first and delivering justice for victims of illegal aliens and drug cartels.  President Trump signed the Laken Riley Act, which mandates the federal detention of illegal aliens accused of theft, burglary, assaulting a law enforcement officer, or any crime resulting in death or serious bodily injury.  President Trump designated international drug cartels and other criminal gangs, such as MS-13 and Tren de Aragua, as Foreign Terrorist Organizations. This enables a whole-of-government approach to dismantle their drug and human trafficking operations. The days of unchecked cartel and gang violence are over.    The Trump Administration secured the extradition of 29 Mexican drug cartel members who are facing charges including racketeering, drug-trafficking, murder, illegal use of firearms, money laundering, and other crimes. Some of these individuals include:  Rafael Caro Quintero, alleged to have been among those responsible for the 1985 murder of DEA agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena and others. This cartel kingpin unleashed violence, destruction, and death across the U.S. and Mexico and spent four decades atop DEA’s most wanted fugitives list.  Martin Sotelo, alleged to have participated in the 2022 murder of Deputy Sheriff Ned Byrd.  Antonio Oseguera Cervantes, alleged to have helped lead the Cártel de Jalisco Nueva Generación.  Ramiro Perez Moreno and Lucio Hernandez Lechuga, alleged to be high-ranking members of Los Zetas.  The Trump Administration extradited Eswin Mejia, an illegal alien arrested for killing 21-year-old Sarah Root in a drunk driving crash, from Honduras.   President Trump reopened the Victims of Immigration Crime Engagement (VOICE) office, which was shuttered by the Biden Administration. President Trump and Secretary Noem are standing up for the victims of illegal alien crime and ensuring they have access to much needed resources and support they deserve.   President Trump is restoring integrity and common sense to our legal immigration system.  President Trump ended the broad abuse of humanitarian parole and returned the program to a case-by-case basis. As part of this effort, Secretary Noem terminated the Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela parole programs.   President Trump restored integrity to our immigration system by returning the Temporary Protect Status (TPS) immigration program to its original status: temporary. No longer will this program be abused and exploited by illegal aliens. Secretary Noem rescinded the previous administration’s extension of Venezuelan, Haitian, and Afghan TPS.      President Trump is returning common sense to our legal immigration system and national security by revoking visas of terrorist sympathizers. Those who glorify and support terrorists who kill Americans are not welcome in the U.S. Some examples include:  ICE arrested Mahmoud Khalil, a former Columbia University graduate student who led activities aligned with Hamas and passed out pro-Hamas propaganda flyers.  Dr. Rasha Alawieh was deported after she admitted to attending the funeral of Hassan Nasrallah, a brutal terrorist who led Hezbollah and was responsible for killing hundreds of Americans.  ICE arrested Badar Khan Suri, a Georgetown foreign exchange student whose father-in-law is a senior advisor to Hamas.  To keep America safe, DHS is now conducting enhanced vetting of visa applicants, including monitoring foreign aliens’ social media accounts to identify any support for terrorist organizations.    President Trump is using tariffs as a negotiating tool to force other countries to take decisive action that puts American safety, prosperity, and national security first.  President Trump announced reciprocal tariffs on countries that have been ripping off America for years.   Unfair trade practices made our supply chain dependent on foreign adversaries, eroded our industrial base, and hurt American workers. This has gravely impacted our national security. Now, President Trump is fighting back and putting America first.   President Trump’s tariffs forced Mexico to deploy 10,000 troops on our southern border to stop the flow of fentanyl and illegal aliens into our country and Canada to add thousands of personnel to the northern border.    Under President Trump, Secretary Noem refocused DHS to its core mission of protecting the American homeland and eliminating government waste.  The USCG eliminated an ineffective information technology (IT) program, saving nearly $33 million, and is now focusing resources where they’re most needed to protect our homeland.  The Trump Administration stopped aliens on the Terror Watchlist from receiving Medicaid benefits.   Secretary Noem ended the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) FEMA grant program that was wasteful and ineffective. This resulted in nearly a billion dollars being directed to the Disaster Relief Fund.    To stop policies that were magnets for illegal immigration, DHS froze all funding to non-governmental organizations that facilitate illegal immigration and announced a partnership with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to ensure taxpayer dollars do not go to housing illegal aliens.  Secretary Noem ended collective bargaining for the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) Transportation Security Officers, which constrained TSA’s chief mission to safeguard our transportation systems and keep Americans safe.   Bottom Line: President Trump campaigned on border security and immigration enforcement, the American people voted for it, and Secretary Noem and DHS are delivering beyond anyone’s expectations.  President Trump and Secretary Noem will continue fighting every day to secure our border and keep American communities safe. This is just the beginning of a new Golden Age of America.  # # # Secretary Rollins, Attorney General Bondi, and Secretary Noem Host Press Conference Supporting Maude Family, Announcing U.S. Government Has Dropped Criminal Charges 04/29/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs  MEDIA ADVISORY: Secretary Rollins, Attorney General Bondi, and Secretary Noem Host Press Conference Supporting Maude Family, Announcing U.S. Government Has Dropped Criminal Charges WASHINGTON – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, and U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem are hosting a press conference in support of the Maude family, who endured a senseless politically motivated prosecution waged by the Biden Administration over 25 acres of federal land. This comes after the Trump Administration announced that the U.S. government has dropped criminal charges against the Maude family. WHAT: Press conference in support of Maude family following announcement that U.S. government has dropped all criminal charges against the family. WHO: Charles and Heather Maude, South Dakota Ranching Family U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden U.S. Senator Mike Rounds U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson U.S. Representative Harriet Hageman WHEN: Wednesday, April 30th, 9:00am ET.                Media setup begins at 8:30am ET WHERE: USDA Whitten Building Front Steps, 1400 Jefferson Drive SW, Washington, DC 20250. *Media must RSVP to press@usda.gov by TODAY, April 29th by 6pm ET. # # # Fact Check- DHS is NOT Deporting American Children 04/29/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs Fact Check- DHS is NOT Deporting American Children  WASHINGTON – Once again, the media is shamefully peddling a false narrative in an attempt to demonize our ICE enforcement agents, who are already facing a 300% surge in assaults again them. The media and Democrat politicians are force-feeding the public false information that US citizen children are being deported.     This is false and irresponsible. In both of these cases the mothers had a final order of deportation. Rather than separate their families, ICE asked the mothers if they wanted to be removed with their children or if they wanted ICE to place the children with someone safe the parent designates. Both mothers choose to deport with their children.     Jenny Carolina Lopez-Villela illegally entered this country three times in September 2019, March of 2021, and August 2021. She and her older daughter were deemed inadmissible to the United States the first time she entered the country and both her and her daughter were given final orders of removal in March 2020. When she was taken into ICE custody in April 2025, she chose to bring her younger daughter, who is an American Citizen, with her to Honduras and presented a valid United States passport.     Reachel Alexas Morales-Valle entered this country illegally and was released into the interior in 2013. She was given a final order of deportation in 2015. In February of 2025, she was arrested by Kenner Police Department in Louisiana for speeding, driving without insurance, and driving without a license. When she was taken into ICE custody in April 2025, she chose to bring both children, who are American citizens, with her to Honduras and presented a valid United States passport for each child.     DHS takes its responsibility to protect children seriously and will continue to work with federal law enforcement to ensure that children are safe and protected. Parents, who are here illegally, can take control of their departure. Through the CBP Home App— the Trump Administration is giving parents illegally in the country a chance to take full control of their departure and self-deport, with the potential ability to return the legal, right way and come back to live the American dream. It is free and available for all mobile devices.  # # # U.S. and Uzbekistan Forge Strong Security Partnership with Historic Deportation Operation 04/30/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs   U.S. and Uzbekistan Forge Strong Security Partnership with Historic Deportation Operation WASHINGTON – Today, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), under Secretary Noem’s leadership, partnered with the Government of Uzbekistan to successfully deport over 100 illegal aliens from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. This operation, in which Uzbekistan fully funded the deportation of their own nationals, underscores the deep security cooperation between our nations and sets a standard for U.S. alliances. “We commend Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev for his leadership in sending a flight to return 131 illegal aliens back to their home country,” said Secretary Noem. “We look forward to continuing to work together with Uzbekistan on efforts to enhance our mutual security and uphold the rule of law.” This landmark partnership is the latest in a long line of successful deals with foreign partners negotiated by President Trump and his administration. He put the American people first and successfully convinced Colombia to begin accepting migrants removed from the United States, developed a strong working partnership with El Salvador to lock up criminal illegal aliens and gang members, and turned Mexico into a willing ally in the fight against drug cartels, leading to the arrest of over 6,000 drug traffickers – the highest number of arrests in Mexico’s history. These are just some of the successful efforts that reflect President Trump’s vision for strong diplomatic cooperation and a restored immigration system, ensuring that illegal aliens are returned to their countries of origin. We are just getting started. # # # DHS Reveals Second Domestic Abuse Filing Filed by Kilmar Abrego Garcia's Ex-Wife 04/30/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs   DHS Reveals Second Domestic Abuse Filing Filed by Kilmar Abrego Garcia’s Ex-Wife  So-called “Maryland Dad’s” Track Record of Violence  WASHINGTON – On Wednesday April 30, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) revealed that the ex-wife of Kilmar Abrego Garcia — the so-called “Maryland Dad”—filed a petition for protection against him in 2020.      “The facts are clear: Kilmar Abrego Garcia is a violent illegal alien who abuses women and children. He had no business being in our country and we are proud to have deported this violent thug,” Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said in a statement. “We have now found two petitions for protection against him, in addition to the fact that he entered the country illegally and is a confirmed member of MS-13. Our country is safer with him gone.”    According to the petition filed by Jennifer Vasquez on August 3, 2020, in the District Court of Maryland for Prince George’s County, Garcia verbally abused her, kicked her, slapped her, shoved her, mentally abused her kids, locking them in their bedroom while they cried, and detained Vasquez against her will. In November 2019, Vasquez alleges that Garcia grabbed her by the hair while in a vehicle. In December 2019, she states Garcia grabbed her from her hair in the car and dragged her out of the vehicle--abandoning her in the street. In January 2020, Vasquez claims Garcia broke her son’s tablet and broke doors in their house. In March 2020, she alleges that Garcia pushed her against the wall while breaking phones and TVs.  This newly released petition was filed in 2020, prior to the petition Vasquez filed against Garcia 2021. In that filing, Vasquez claimed he bruised, punched, and scratched her while ripping off her shirt.  DHS has previously revealed that Abrego Garcia was involved in a suspected human trafficking incident, is an MS-13 gang member, and had been accused of domestic abuse on at least one other occasion. Still, the media continues to call him a victim while ignoring the real victims: the women he battered, the children he terrorized, and the communities he endangered.  The Aug. 2020 protection order petition can be found here.  # # # 100 Days of Fighting Fake News 04/30/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs  100 Days of Fighting Fake News    From Stories on Criminals to Statistics, DHS has been Holding the Media Accountable for Spreading Disinformation to the American people  WASHINGTON— During President Trump’s 100 days in office, the Department of Homeland Security published a non exhaustive list of facts, to help set the record straight on numerous false and misleading stories that have spread around news coverage and social media. The list can be found below: The Facts on Noteworthy Individuals Deported or Prevented from Entering the U.S. The Deportation Of American Citizens The media has FALSELY claimed that ICE is deporting US citizen children of illegal aliens. This is false. In both cases the mother made the determination to take her children with her back to Honduras. DHS takes our responsibility to protect children seriously and will continue to work with federal law enforcement to ensure that children are safe and protected. The Trump Administration is giving parents in this country illegally the opportunity to self-deport and take control of their departure process with the potential ability to return the legal, right way and come back to live the American dream. The CBP Home app is a free and easy way to self deport. Kilmar Abrego Garcia - The “Maryland Man” Garcia is NOT an American citizen. He is a citizen of El Salvador who had been living in the country illegally. In 2019, two courts – an immigration court and an appellate immigration court – ruled that he was not only a member of MS-13, but that he was in our country illegally. There was a deportation order for him dating back to 2019. Further details about Garcia’s history prove that he is far from innocent. In 2020, his wife filed a petition for protection citing three separate instances of violence In 2021, his wife filed for a restraining order against him due to domestic violence. In 2022, Garcia was pulled over by Tennessee Highway Patrol with 8 people crammed into one car. Despite telling the officers that they were going on a trip from Houston, Texas to Temple Hills, Maryland, there was no sign of luggage in the car. It was later revealed that the vehicle Garcia was driving during this stop was registered to another illegal alien who had been convicted of human trafficking, Jose Roman Hernandez Reyes. The media further claimed that the Supreme Court ordered the Trump Administration to return Garcia to the United States. This is another falsehood. The Supreme Court unanimously overturned that judge’s ruling but instead said that the United States should “facilitate” Garcia’s return. This would only be possible if the government of El Salvador decided to return him, in which case the United States would have to provide transportation. It’s up to Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele and the government of El Salvador if they want to return him. But as President Bukele said during his Oval Office visit with President Trump, he has no intention of releasing a terrorist and sending him back to the United States. When President Trump declared MS-13 a foreign terrorist organization, Abrego Garcia became no longer eligible for any form of immigration relief in the United States. He had a valid deportation order. Furthermore, the Supreme Court also held that EVEN IF El Salvador returned this MS-13 member to the United States, we could deport him a second time. NO version of this legally ends with him ever living in the U.S., because he is a citizen of El Salvador. The foreign policy of the United States is conducted by the President – not by a court – and no court in the United States has the power to conduct the foreign policy of the United States. Dr. Rasha Alawieh - "The Brown University Assistant Professor" Dr. Rasha Alawieh was an assistant professor at Brown University. She was in the United States with an H-1B visa. She was deported back to her home country of Lebanon after she admitted to attending the funeral of Hassan Nasrallah, a brutal terrorist who led Hezbollah and was responsible for killing hundreds of Americans. The media tried to portray Alawieh’s case as an example of a “lawful immigrant” being deported. But they completely ignored her direct and alarming ties to radical Islamic terrorism, including her veneration of a dead terrorist leader. Alfredo “Alex” Orellana - "The Caregiver" Alfredo “Alex” Orellana has multiple charges on his record from 2012 to 2019, including: distributing drugs, drug possession, assault and battery, failure to appear to court (twice), theft at the second degree, and larceny. He has since been arrested and faces deportation. The New York Times wrote a lengthy article on Orellana’s case. Their article painted a picture of a loving 31-year-old caregiver who was the “best friend” of a 28-year-old autistic man. They also pointed to the fact that Orellana had a green card. The press tried to paint him as a victim who was a caretaker, despite violent charges on his record. Jerce Reyes Barrios - "The Venezuelan Soccer Player" Jerce Reyes Barrios was in the United States illegally. He was a member of the vicious Tren de Aragua gang, and he was deported to El Salvador. He has tattoos that are consistent with those indicating membership in the vicious Tren de Aragua gang. His own social media indicates that he is a Tren de Aragua member. That hasn’t stopped the media, however. They tried to whip up a frenzy over this deported criminal gang member, publishing wild claims that he was deported because of a tattoo of a soccer team on his arm. The facts are the facts. Our intelligence assessments go beyond just social media and tattoos. We are confident in our findings. Nascimento Blair - "The Ex-Con" Blair was an illegal alien living in the United States who was tried and convicted for kidnapping and sentenced to 15 years in prison. The New York Times published a fawning profile about this criminal illegal alien. In 2008, he was ordered removed out of the country. However, because of the Biden administration’s open border policies, this criminal illegal alien was released onto the streets of New York. The Trump administration is putting the American people first by getting this criminal illegal alien off the streets and out of our country. "The French Scientist Denied Entry Over His Political Views" In March, a French scientist was denied entry into the United States. The researcher in question was in possession of confidential information on his electronic device from Los Alamos National Laboratory. This was in clear violation of a non-disclosure agreement - something he admitted to taking without permission and attempted to conceal to authorities. The mainstream media ran with the baseless narrative that this individual was blocked from entering the U.S. because of social media posts that were critical of President Trump. This lie was even echoed by France’s Minister for Higher Education, Philippe Baptiste. His political beliefs were not considered at all in his removal. Marie Lepère and Charlotte Pohl – "German Tourists Turned Away on Vacation" Two German tourists were denied entry after attempting to enter the U.S. under false pretenses. Both claimed they were touring California but later admitted that they intended to work. One used a Visitor visa, while the other used the Visa Waiver Program. Under U.S. immigration laws, work is prohibited for these visas. The media version of events depicted two young women who tried to go on a five-week backpacking trip through the United States. The media claimed that the two – aged 18 and 19 – were “deported” because they simply wanted to go on a fun, loosely-planned trip. These travelers weren’t deported—they were denied entry. And the reason for their removal was visa fraud, not because of the planning nature of their so-called “vacation.” Jose Hermosillo – "The American Citizen Detained by Border Patrol" Hermosillo turned himself in to immigration authorities on April 8. He approached Border Patrol in Tucson, Arizona and declared that he had entered the U.S. illegally. He completed a sworn statement identifying as a Mexican citizen who had entered unlawfully. He was processed and appeared in court on April 11. Afterwards, he was held by the U.S. Marshals in Florence, Arizona. A few days later, his family presented documents showing U.S. citizenship. The charges were dismissed, and he was released to his family. The media, instead of reporting the facts, created a false and baseless story that an American citizen was illegally detained. Hermosillio’s arrest was the direct action of his own actions and statements. When his citizenship was confirmed, he was promptly released back to his family. Kseniia Petrova - "The Russian Scientist Trying to Cure Cancer" Kseniia Petrova, a Russian researcher working for Harvard University, was lawfully detained after lying to federal officers about carrying substances into the country. A subsequent K9 inspection uncovered undeclared petri dishes, containers of unknown substances, and loose vials of embryonic frog cells, all without proper permits. Messages found on her phone revealed she planned to smuggle the materials through customs without declaring them. She knowingly broke the law and took deliberate steps to evade it. But upon her detainment, the media rushed to defend her by claiming that her research could help to cure cancer. The facts of the matter are simple: Petrova broke the law and actively planned to do so. Her research does not make her exempt from the laws of our country. Renato Subotic – "The MMA Coach" Subotic is an MMA coach who entered the United States under a visa waiver program that prohibits compensation – only travel reimbursements are allowed. When Subotic was detained under American law, the media claimed that he was thrown in prison and deported for no real reason.Here are the facts: Subotic couldn’t meet the requirement to prove he wasn’t being compensated for participating at a high-dollar, multi-day event. The law is clear: the burden of proof is on the traveler. Since he couldn’t provide detailed answers or the necessary documentation for compensation related to the work event, he was held until the next available flight out the following day. Ricardo Jesus Prada Vasquez – The "Disappearing” Delivery Driver Yet again, the media has manufactured a fake controversy on behalf of a terrorist gang member and criminal illegal alien. Ricardo Jesus Prada Vasquez is a Venezuelan national and confirmed member of Tren De Aragua. He entered the United States illegally on November 29, 2024 at the Brownsville, Texas Port of Entry via the CBP One App. The Biden administration, like it did with so many other dangerous criminals, released Prada Vasquez back into the United States. On January 15th, Prada was encountered trying to enter the U.S. from Canada. He was detained, investigated, and confirmed as a member of TDA and a public safety threat. On February 27, a judge ordered him removed from the U.S. He was then removed to El Salvador. The media, however, has falsely claimed that Prada Vasquez was an innocent delivery driver who was “disappeared” by the government. Prada Vasquez was living and working in the U.S. illegally, he was a member of a criminal gang designated as a terrorist organization, and was deported with full compliance with American law. Jeanette Vizguerra – "The Activist Who Needed Sanctuary" Jeanette Vizguerra is a convicted criminal alien from Mexico who has a final order of deportation issued by a federal immigration judge. She illegally entered the United States near El Paso, Texas, on Dec. 24, 1997, and has received legal due process in U.S. immigration court. The media, however, has tried to turn her into a martyr. They claim she was an “activist” who needed “sanctuary.” In reality, she getting famous and making money for breaking the law. Under President Trump, this is a nation of laws. We will find, arrest, and deport illegal aliens, no matter how famous the media thinks they are. Vizguerra was in the United States illegally. She was convicted of breaking the law. She was deported. If you come to our country illegally, we will deport you, and you will never return. The safest option for illegal aliens is to self-deport, so they still have the opportunity to return and live the American dream. The Facts on Those Who Have Abused The Privilege of a Student Visa  Yunseo Chung – "The Columbia Student" Yunseo Chung, who was born in South Korea, is a Columbia University student who engaged in concerning conduct on-campus. This includes her being arrested by NYPD during a pro-Hamas protest at Barnard College. Mahmoud Khalil - "The Activist Leader at Columbia" Mahmoud Khalil, a former Columbia University graduate student from Syria, is one of the ringleaders of the vicious, anti-American, anti-Semitic protests at Columbia University. His activities are aligned with Hamas, a designated terrorist organization. On March 9, 2025, in support of President Trump’s executive orders prohibiting anti-Semitism, and in coordination with the Department of State, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested Khalil. But upon his arrest, radical student protesters at Columbia and across the country have attempted to turn him into a martyr, waving signs and banners bearing his likeness. Taking over private buildings, inciting violence, harassing Jewish students, defacing buildings, and passing out terrorist propaganda do not constitute free speech. A judge ruled that Khalil’s deportation can move forward. He will be removed from our country. Mohsen Mahdawi – "The Palestinian at Columbia University" Mahdawi is a Palestinian who has been living in the United States on a visa while he was studying at Columbia University. Like many other anti-Israel student protesters, supporters in the media tried to claim that Mahdawi was a victim of political persecution. But his rhetoric on the war in Israel proves his terrorist sympathies. In the wake of October 7, Mahdawi said he could empathize with Hamas’s attack on Israel. He appeared on “60 Minutes” justifying the massacre. He organized and led pro-Hamas protests on Columbia University’s campus, harassed Jewish students, and openly displayed his support for a terrorist organization. Leqaa Kordia – "The Palestinian at Columbia University" Leqaa Kordia was another Columbia Student who actively participated in anti-American, pro-terrorist activities on campus. However, her arrest had nothing to do with her radical activities. Kordia was arrested for immigration violations due to having overstayed her F-1 student visa, which had been terminated on January 26, 2022 for lack of attendance Dogukan Gunaydin - "The University of Minnesota Student" Dogukan Gunaydin, a graduate student at the University of Minnesota,was arrested after a visa revocation by the State Dept. related to a prior criminal history for a DUI. Contrary to the mainstream media’s quick speculation that he was arrested due to his involvement in student protests, his protest activity had nothing to do with his detainment. Badar Khan Suri – "The Georgetown Foreign Exchange Student" Suri was a foreign exchange student at Georgetown University actively spreading Hamas propaganda and promoting antisemitism on social media. The media calls him a “scholar” who was innocent of any wrongdoing, even though he was married to the daughter of a senior advisor for to Hamas terrorist group. Momodou Taal – "The Cornell University Student" Taal was unapologetic in his pro-terrorist views. Taal, a foreign student studying at Cornell University, participated in pro-Hamas protests on campus. He has a pinned post on his X profile that talks about a so-called “Zionist genocide,” and also states “Long live the student intifada!” Other Fake News Narratives Corrected  The Biden Administration’s inflated deportation numbers DHS uncovered what should be a massive scandal: the Biden administration was cooking the books on ICE arrest data. They were purposefully misleading the American public by categorizing individuals processed and released into the interior of the United States as ICE arrests. Of course, the media ignored this fact. Instead, they falsely claimed that the Biden administration had carried out more arrests than the Trump administration. Tens of thousands of cases recorded as “arrests” were, in fact, instances where illegal aliens were simply processed and released into American communities. Many of these were violent criminals and gang members. The previous administration counted these as arrests even though no immigration enforcement action was taken. During fiscal year 2024, ICE made 113,431 arrests but the vast majority of those were what we call “pass-through” arrests. They are called pass-through arrests because ICE didn’t take enforcement actions against these aliens. They just passed through ICE before they were released in the U.S. interior and told to report to an ICE office. None of the arrests made by ICE since January 20th are pass-through arrests. The difference between recent arrests and those from Biden’s last year is that, now we’re taking enforcement actions against each and every illegal alien arrested. ICE Boston Militia rumors: The media eagerly fed and spread a false social media rumor that an ICE agent who conducted arrests of criminal illegal aliens in New England was a “militia leader” from Arizona. The reality? He is a federal law enforcement office who has worked with ICE to help keep New England communities safe for years. This claim was not only false, but also inflammatory and places the safety of federal officers in jeopardy. Our ICE officers are facing 300% increase in assaults while carrying out enforcement operations. Due process and treatment rumors in CECOT: These aliens HAVE had due process – we have a stringent law enforcement assessment in place that abides by due process under the U.S. Constitution. The reality is that prison isn’t supposed to be fun. It’s a necessary measure to protect society and punish bad guys. It is not meant to be comfortable. What’s more: prison can be avoided by self-deportation. CBP Home makes it simple and easy. If you are a criminal alien and we have to deport you, you could end up in Guantanamo Bay or CECOT. Leave now. DOGE and ICE allegedly collecting sensitive data from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services The Biden administration flooded the U.S. with tens of millions of illegal immigrants, many of which are exploiting the American taxpayer by illegally getting Medicare and other benefits meant for law-abiding Americans. President Trump consistently promised to protect Medicare for eligible beneficiaries. To keep that promise, DOGE, CMS, and DHS are exploring an initiative to ensure that illegal aliens are not receiving these benefits not meant for them. The media claimed that ICE is working with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to access sensitive personal information in order to identify illegal aliens. These claims are meant to frighten the American people, when in reality this process is working to keep them and their benefits safe from exploitation by illegal aliens. ICE HSI presence at schools ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) works relentlessly to protect Americans, especially children, who are put in danger by illegal alien activity. This includes investigations into potential child sex trafficking. But the media has tried to spin their investigative work into the idea that they are going to elementary schools to arrest children. HD Cooke Elementary School, Washington D.C. At the HD Cooke Elementary School in Washington D.C., ICE did not conduct any enforcement action at the school. HSI agents were present at the school unrelated to any kind of enforcement action. Russel Elementary and Lillian Elementary in Los Angeles: At two different elementary schools in Los Angeles, California, HSI officers were conducting wellness checks on children who arrived unaccompanied at the border. It had nothing to do with immigration enforcement. DHS is leading efforts to conduct welfare checks on these children to ensure that they are safe and not being exploited, abused, and sex trafficked. Unlike the previous administration, President Trump and Secretary Noem take the responsibility to protect children seriously and will continue to work with federal law enforcement to reunite children with their families. In less than 70 days, Secretary Noem and Secretary Kennedy have already reunited nearly 5,000 unaccompanied children with a relative or safe guardian. Immigrant children detained at Old McDonald Farm in New York In early April, a raid was carried out on a dairy farm in New York after the execution of a federal criminal warrant for an illegal alien in possession of + distributing child sexual abuse materials. Upon the execution of the search warrant at Old McDonalds Farm in Sackets Harbor, New York, authorities encountered seven additional illegal aliens on the premises, including a mother and her three children. We immediately began conducting an investigation to ensure these children are not being sexually exploited. But rather than address the very real evidence of child sexual abuse, the media chose to focus on the fact that a woman and her three children were taken into custody. DHS takes its responsibility to protect children seriously and our ICE officers are working every day to remove pedophiles from American communities. TDA members being identified via tattoos Some have claimed that DHS’ assessments of TDA and other gang memberships are based solely on the tattoos that certain illegal aliens have. DHS intelligence assessments go well beyond just gang affiliate tattoos and social media. Tren De Aragua is one of the most violent and ruthless terrorist gangs on planet earth. They rape, maim, and murder for sport. President Trump and Secretary Noem will not allow criminal gangs to terrorize American citizens. We are confident in our law enforcement’s intelligence, and we aren’t going to share intelligence reports and undermine national security every time a gang member denies he is one. That would be insane. # # # Reuters "Reporting" Fails to Mention that the Biden Administration Released Two Tren de Aragua Gang Members into American Communities 04/30/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs   Reuters “Reporting” Fails to Mention that the Biden Administration Released Two Tren de Aragua Gang Members into American Communities   WASHINGTON – The mainstream media’s latest attempt at a criminal gang sob story includes a self-admitted member of Tren de Aragua. The real story here is that the previous administration was releasing gang members into American communities. Jeferson Daniel Escalona Hernandez, a 19-year-old self-admitted Tren de Aragua gang member from Venezuela, illegally entered the United States on March 27, 2024. The previous administration released this gang member into our country. He was arrested for felony evading arrest with a vehicle and put in a Denton County jail. An immigration judge ordered Escalona removed from the U.S. on April 11, 2025, and he remains in ICE custody at the Bluebonnet Detention Center in Anson, Texas, pending his removal from the U.S.    Diover Millan Leon, a 24-year-old Venezuelan and documented member of Tren de Aragua, illegally entered the U.S. on an unknown date and at an unknown location. The U.S. Border Patrol arrested Millan on May 3, 2023, near Brownsville, Texas, and he was processed as a notice to appear and released on his own recognizance. ICE officers arrested Millan in Lawrenceville, Georgia on March 12, 2025. ICE transferred Millan from the Stewart Detention Center in Lumpkin, Georgia, to the Bluebonnet Detention Center in Anson, Texas, April 15, where he remains pending disposition of his immigration proceedings.  Statement Attributable to Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin:    “This is more irresponsible, lazy reporting by Reuters. Why do they continue to peddle the sob stories of these gang members but ignore their American victims?     Tren De Aragua is one of the most violent and ruthless terrorist gangs on planet earth. They rape, maim, and murder for sport. The previous administration released these gang members into our communities. President Trump and Secretary Noem have ended catch and release and will not allow criminal gangs to terrorize American citizens.”  # # # ICYMI: ICE Targets Major Human and Drug Smuggling Property In Oklahoma City 05/01/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs   ICYMI: ICE Targets Major Human and Drug Smuggling Property In Oklahoma City WASHINGTON – Today, the Department of Homeland Security set the record straight regarding an April 24, 2025, execution of court-authorized search warrant at a home owned by a human smuggling suspect in Oklahoma City. This lawful operation conducted by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), led by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), targeted a property that is involved in a transitional human and drug smuggling organization which trafficked illegal aliens from Guatemala, Mexico, Colombia, Central South America and China around the interior of the United States. Statement Attributable to Senior DHS Official: “The April 24 Oklahoma ICE operation was a lawful, court-authorized action explicitly targeting a property, that was a hub for human smuggling, not specific individuals, as falsely suggested by media reports. "The day prior to the search warrant issuance and the day of the search warrant, HSI agents conducted surveillance, and confirmed via utility records that a member of the Lima Lopez Transnational Criminal Organization was still paying utilities at the residence. The warrant, issued by a Federal Judge was based on an 84-page affidavit detailing probable cause that the address served as a “stash house” for human smuggling, authorizing the seizure of evidence such as electronic devices and documents, regardless of who was present. "The warrant targeted the property itself, not specific individuals, and its execution was not contingent on the presence of any person. HSI, with Oklahoma state police support, executed the warrant with precision, seizing electronic devices as authorized. This court-authorized search was a critical strike against a dangerous human smuggling network in furtherance of our mission to protect American communities from the chaos unleashed by the Biden administration’s open-border policies. "This is an ongoing investigation, and we have not ruled out current occupants involvement in the smuggling ring." ICYMI: Get the Facts: Oklahoma home raided by ICE is owned by human smuggling suspect The indictment obtained by KOCO 5 shows eight Guatemalan nationals were the targets of the investigation. KEY FACTS ABOUT THE OPERATION: FACT: As reported by KOCO 5, the indictment against, “shows eight Guatemalan nationals were the  targets of the investigation as part of the ‘Lima Lopez Transnational Criminal Organization.’ Their charges range from drugs, fraud, money laundering to re-entry after deportation.” FACT: The day prior to the search warrant issuance and the day of the search warrant, HSI agents conducted surveillance, and confirmed via utility records that known and confirmed gang members of the Lima Lopez Transnational Criminal Organization, were still paying utilities at the residence. KOCO 5 reported that the owner of the home, Cidia Marleny Lima Lopez, “is allegedly a major player in the human smuggling case that agents have been working for years.” “Records show that she owns the home that was raided as well as another one in Oklahoma City,” KOCO added. “Eight arrests were made in that investigation, which was years in the making and not part of any new immigration enforcement.” FACT: The warrant, issued by a Federal Judge was based on an 84-page affidavit detailing probable cause that the address served as a “stash house” for human and drug smuggling, authorizing the seizure of evidence such as electronic devices and documents, regardless of who was present. FACT: The warrant targeted the property itself, not specific individuals, and its execution was not contingent on the presence of any person. HSI, with Oklahoma state police support, executed the warrant with precision, seizing electronic devices as authorized. KOCO 5 reported that this investigation began “prior to any recent changes to ICE policies.” CONCLUSION: This court-authorized search was a critical strike against a dangerous human and drug smuggling network in furtherance of our mission to protect American communities from the chaos unleashed by the Biden administration’s open-border policies. # # # ICE Lodges Detainers Against Violent Aliens Over Corpse Rape, Shooting Spree 05/01/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs   ICE Lodges Detainers Against Violent Aliens Over Corpse Rape, Shooting Spree   Open Border Policies Have Let Criminal Illegal Aliens Terrorize American Citizens  WASHINGTON – Under Secretary Noem’s leadership, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is working relentlessly to remove criminals and sexual predators from American communities. This week, ICE New York City and Memphis placed immigration detainers on two criminal illegal aliens accused of heinous crimes.    Enoc Martinez, an illegal alien from Honduras, was arrested in Shelby County, Tennessee and has been charged with five counts of attempted first-degree murder for a shooting spree in Memphis that left two people hospitalized. Martinez illegally entered the U.S. in June 2014 as an unaccompanied minor. He was apprehended by Border Patrol and was turned over to the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) and then placed with a sponsor in Memphis, TN. He was issued a final order of removal in 2022.     Following the shooting spree, ICE lodged an immigration detainer against Martinez.      Felix Rojas, an alien who illegally entered the country multiple times dating back to 1998, was arrested in New York City and has been charged with raping a corpse on the subway near Whitehall Street Station in Manhattan.  On April 30, ICE New York City lodged an immigration detainer against Rojas.        “With impunity open border policies have allowed violent criminal aliens to terrorize America’s towns and cities,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia Mclaughlin. “Under President Trump and Secretary Noem’s leadership, ICE is working around the clock to remove the worst of the worst from our communities. If you are here illegally and break the law, we will hunt you down, arrest you and lock you up.”  # # # New DHS Privacy Document 05/02/2025 May 2, 2025 DHS Privacy Document You are subscribed to receive new privacy documents when they are issued by the DHS Privacy Office. This month we published: New PIA: DHS/ICE/PIA-065 Biometric Identification Transnational Migration Alert Program (BITMAP) Learn more about our activities, publications, and events: Visit our website: https://www.dhs.gov/privacy Follow us on Twitter: @DHS_PRIV Homeland Security Announces Disbursement of over $5 Million in Grant Payments to South Dakota to Support Disaster Relief and Antiterrorism 05/02/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs   Homeland Security Announces Disbursement of over $5 Million in Grant Payments to South Dakota to Support Disaster Relief and Antiterrorism WASHINGTON – Today, under Secretary Noem’s leadership, the Department of Homeland Security has distributed more than $5.3 million in grand funding to the State of South Dakota to support disaster relief funding, antiterrorism efforts, and other key security imperatives. These grant payments were resumed as DHS is undertaking a thorough review of all its spending to fulfill President Trump’s mandate to maximize efficiency, transparency, and save taxpayer dollars. After determining that these grants are essential to helping South Dakota protect Americans from natural disasters and terrorism, Secretary Noem authorized their disbursement. “I am pleased to announce that the people of South Dakota will be getting the support they need to rebuild from disasters and protect themselves from human threats like terrorism,” said Secretary Kristi Noem. “This is what the federal government should be doing: supporting states while they take the lead in providing for their own security. President Trump gave us a mandate to maximize efficiency and make sure that all taxpayer dollars are used for the mission at hand. That is exactly what we are going to do.” The grant money will help the people of South Dakota recover from last year’s severe storms and flooding by rebuilding infrastructure, removing debris, repairing roads and culvers, supplying backup generators, repairing utility lines, and more. # # # DHS Announces the Rescission of Romania's Designation Into the Visa Waiver Program 05/02/2025 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs DHS Announces the Rescission of Romania’s Designation into the Visa Waiver Program Romania May Be Reconsidered for VWP Designation in the Future WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, the Department of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Department of State, rescinded Romania’s Visa Waiver Program (VWP) designation. Despite security concerns, the Biden Administration designated Romania as a VWP country on January 9, 2025. On March 25, 2025, DHS paused implementation of the VWP in order to conduct a review of Romania’s designation. That review has concluded and, given this Administration’s focus on border and immigration security, DHS decided that Romania’s designation should be rescinded in order to protect the integrity of the VWP and to ensure border and immigration security. Romania may be reconsidered for VWP designation in the future should they meet the statutory eligibility criteria. “Maintaining the Visa Waiver Program’s high standards is essential to our national security. In light of this Administration’s focus on border and immigration security, the Secretary of Homeland Security has decided, in consultation with the Secretary of State, to rescind Romania’s VWP designation effective immediately,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “We are grateful for Romania’s close partnership over the years to enhance security cooperation. Romania may be reconsidered for VWP admission in the future.” # # # You are subscribed to updates from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Manage Subscriptions  |  Privacy Policy  |  Help Connect with DHS: Facebook  |  X (Twitter)  |  Instagram  |  LinkedIn  |  Flickr  |  YouTube U.S. Department of Homeland Security www.dhs.gov This email was sent to ricklivermore.thankyoujesus@blogger.com on behalf of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security | DHS.gov