The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on Saturday denied reports that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) had been instructed to limit arrests to illegal immigrants with prior criminal records. In a statement posted on X, the agency reiterated that ‘no one is off the table’ and vowed to continue arresting all individuals in the country illegally.
DHS and ICE officials confirmed that enforcement operations remain unchanged, targeting both criminal and non-criminal illegal immigrants. The clarification followed reports from the Daily Wire and other outlets suggesting a temporary shift in policy, which DHS labeled as ‘false.’
ICE launched a nationwide public safety surge in sanctuary cities, focusing on individuals with serious criminal histories, including murderers, rapists, child predators, and gang members. The operation aims to address concerns about individuals released by sanctuary jurisdictions. DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin previously stated that ICE is not conducting worksite enforcement in Kansas, emphasizing that criminals are the primary targets.
Confusion over enforcement guidance emerged earlier in the week when verbal instructions to prioritize the ‘worst first’ were reportedly distributed to ICE field offices. Sources later described this as a ‘miscommunication’ rather than a formal policy change. The Trump administration subsequently issued new guidance to reaffirm that enforcement priorities remain unchanged, with President Donald Trump stating that ICE can still arrest and deport anyone in the country illegally.
Businesses in Kansas reported disruptions after ICE operations led to temporary closures of restaurants, bars, and stores. Ranchers in Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas warned that ongoing enforcement could cause ‘sudden workforce disruptions,’ raising concerns about animal welfare and operational challenges. Meanwhile, ranchers’ organizations called for clarity on the long-term impact of these measures.
ICE officials clarified that enforcement operations may also include ‘collaterals,’ or individuals encountered during targeted operations, regardless of criminal history. The agency’s statement emphasized that ‘anyone in our country illegally will be arrested and deported.’ DHS also reiterated its commitment to withholding funding from sanctuary cities as part of broader immigration enforcement efforts.