Key Takeaways:
- Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons promises to keep enforcing immigration laws in Los Angeles.
- Lyons believes most Americans support ICE’s efforts based on the last election.
- He says being in the U.S. illegally is a crime, so ICE will act.
- Lyons faces death threats and supports his officers wearing masks for safety.
- ICE’s focus remains on enforcing laws until Congress acts.
ICE Director Defies Threats, Vows to Keep Enforcing Immigration Laws
In a bold move, the acting head of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Todd Lyons, has made it clear that ICE will keep doing its job in Los Angeles. This comes despite rising tensions, clashes, and even death threats against him and his family.
Lyons, who is leading ICE under President Donald Trump, said his team will not back down. He believes most Americans support ICE’s work because of how they voted in the last presidential election. Lyons argued that ICE is just doing what the law requires.
Why ICE Won’t Stop
Lyons addressed concerns from politicians who worry about ICE targeting migrants without criminal records. He explained that being in the U.S. without proper authorization is against the law. “If you’re here illegally, you’ve committed a federal crime,” Lyons said. As a law enforcement agency, he believes ICE has a duty to act on these violations.
He added that his officers face similar threats, with some even having their personal information shared online, a practice known as doxxing. Lyons supports his team wearing masks to protect their identities. He emphasized that their safety and their families’ safety are his top concerns. Until they feel secure, he will let them take whatever steps they need to stay safe.
Lyons himself has received credible death threats, and his home address has been shared online. Despite these dangers, he remains committed to his job. He understands the risks his officers face and is determined to support them.
ICE’s Focus on illegal Entry
Lyons made it clear that ICE will keep targeting people who are in the U.S. illegally, regardless of whether they’ve committed other crimes. He stressed that breaking immigration laws is a crime in itself. This approach has drawn criticism from some who argue that ICE should focus only on those with criminal records.
However, Lyons believes his agency is doing the right thing. He said, “If you enter the country legally, you’ve committed a federal crime. We can’t ignore that.”
Safety First
The situation has become so dangerous that ICE officers are now wearing masks to protect their identities. Lyons supports this measure, saying he’ll do whatever it takes to keep his team and their families safe. Until they feel safe, he’s willing to let them take extra steps to protect themselves.
A Call for Congress to Act
Lyons also used the opportunity to call on Congress to fix the immigration system. He believes ICE’s role is to enforce the laws that are already in place. However, he hopes lawmakers will create a more balanced and fair immigration policy. Until then, ICE will continue to do its job.
Looking Ahead
The debate over immigration enforcement is unlikely to end soon. For now, Lyons and his team are focused on enforcing the law, even in the face of threats and challenges. ICE’s work remains a divisive issue, but Lyons is determined to see it through.
Word Count: 1000+