Evening Edition: ICE Morale Surges After Trump Win
Nov 15, 2024
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Victor Avila, a Retired Supervisory Special Agent with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, discusses the revitalized morale among ICE agents in anticipation of a Trump presidency. He highlights the agency's eagerness for tougher border policies and their collaboration with local law enforcement. The conversation touches on the decline of migrant caravans due to stricter regulations and examines the potential reclassification of drug cartels in relation to U.S. national defense. Avila also reflects on evolving U.S.-Mexico relations and its implications for border security.
The anticipated Trump administration is expected to boost ICE morale and intensify border enforcement activities, resulting in significant policy shifts.
Criminal organizations, adapting to policy changes, are increasingly focusing on human smuggling, highlighting the need for enhanced tactical responses from law enforcement.
Deep dives
Resuming Tough Border Policies
President-elect Trump is expected to reinstate stringent border protection measures, which are already prompting discussions among criminal elements about exploiting the impending changes. Federal agencies are preparing to ramp up their border enforcement activities, with a noted increase in morale among officials eager to resume their duties. This shift comes as many law enforcement personnel feel restricted by the current administration's policies, which have included practices such as catch and release. The period leading up to the inauguration is seen as a vulnerable time, as both law enforcement and those attempting illegal entry are adjusting to the upcoming policy changes.
The Role of Cartels and Human Trafficking
Cartels have shifted their focus from drug trafficking to human smuggling and exploitation, recognizing the profitability of these operations. The potential designation of these cartels as foreign terrorist organizations could provide law enforcement with enhanced resources and strategies to combat their operations effectively. Retired agents emphasize that military-like interventions may become a necessary tactic to dismantle cartel activities, including the operation of methamphetamine production facilities. The effectiveness of these measures may hinge on collaboration with Mexico, which has its complexities given the current political climate.
Impact of Communication on Migration Patterns
Effective communication from border enforcement agencies is viewed as crucial to deter potential migrants contemplating the journey to the U.S. Sharing negative outcomes experienced by those who have attempted entry, such as detention or deportation, could significantly alter the decision-making process of future migrants. The timing and content of these messages will play a key role in influencing whether current migrant caravans continue their trek to the southern border. Additionally, the potential for increased pressure on Mexico to cooperate with U.S. border policies may arise, creating a reciprocal benefit for both nations.
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is said to be ramping up their surveillance technology in giddy anticipation for another Trump administration. It is a first sign that border agents are predicting major changes immediately after President-elect Donald Trump takes over the WhIte House.
FOX’s Eben Brown speaks with Victor Avila, Retired Supervisory Special Agent with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, who says ICE and other border agency agents are very much looking forward to a change in posture at the border.
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