Trump Expands Immigration Efforts By Granting New Powers To Federal Agencies

The Trump administration has taken a major step to increase immigration enforcement by granting new authority to federal law enforcement agencies to assist in locating and detaining illegal immigrants. A directive signed by acting Homeland Security Secretary Benjamine Huffman expands enforcement responsibilities beyond traditional immigration agencies.

The order authorizes officers from the U.S. Marshals, Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Bureau of Prisons to participate in immigration-related operations. These agencies, which typically focus on federal crimes such as drug trafficking and fugitive apprehension, will now support ICE in enforcing immigration laws.

Huffman emphasized that this decision is crucial to addressing the challenges left by the previous administration’s weak enforcement policies. She noted that law enforcement officials will now have additional support to carry out their duties more efficiently.

With the inclusion of these agencies, an estimated 31,000 officers are expected to be available to assist ICE and Border Patrol, providing a substantial boost to existing enforcement efforts. This marks an 80% increase in personnel dedicated to immigration enforcement.

Authorities have already reported success with these new efforts, with recent operations leading to the arrest of over 500 illegal immigrants, including individuals involved in gang activity and violent crimes. Officials are focusing on sanctuary cities where local governments have previously resisted federal immigration enforcement.

The administration remains committed to removing individuals who have entered the country illegally, with further actions expected in the near future.