The Trump administration has issued a new directive to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), setting a target of 3,000 arrests per day as part of its latest crackdown on illegal immigration. This goal nearly doubles the previously established daily target.
In support of this directive, ICE leadership is undergoing a significant shake-up. Kenneth Genalo, the former head of Enforcement and Removal Operations, has retired but will remain on as a special government employee. Robert Hammer, who previously led Homeland Security Investigations, has been reassigned. Stepping into new leadership roles are Marcos Charles and Derek Gordon, now acting heads of ERO and HSI, respectively.
The administration is also pursuing an expansive immigration enforcement package, which includes proposals for one million deportations per year, 100,000 detention beds, and the hiring of 10,000 new ICE personnel.
The aggressive strategy has sparked concern among immigration advocates who warn it could lead to civil rights violations and the detention of individuals without serious criminal records. The full effects of the administration’s plan on immigrant communities and legal systems remain to be seen.