DHS says assaults on ICE agents have surged 830% since Trump’s return, blaming anti-ICE rhetoric by politicians and media.

ICE Officers Face Wave of Violence After Policy Shifts

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced Tuesday that assaults on U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers have increased by a staggering 830% between January 21 and July 14, 2025, compared to the same period the previous year. The surge began immediately after President Donald Trump’s return to the Oval Office, with officials attributing the violence to a toxic climate of rhetoric and misinformation.

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem highlighted the urgency of the crisis, posting on X, “Our brave @ICEGov law enforcement are now facing a 830% INCREASE in assault against them.” She called on politicians from all parties to publicly denounce the attacks, emphasizing the need for unity in supporting law enforcement.

The department specifically accused Congressional Democrats and mainstream media outlets of inflaming anti-ICE sentiment. DHS cited several incidents, including the public sharing of ICE employees’ personal information, or “doxing,” and direct physical confrontations with officers.

High-Profile Incidents and Accusations Against Lawmakers

One notable case involved Rep. Salud Carbajal, D-Calif., who, according to DHS, allegedly shared an ICE employee’s business card with a hostile crowd, leading to an attack that left the officer hospitalized with head injuries. Another incident cited by DHS involved Rep. LaMonica McIver, D-N.J., who reportedly stormed the Delaney Hall detention center and assaulted an ICE officer. McIver was later indicted on federal assault charges.

ICE officers have also become targets for harassment in cities like Portland, Oregon. DHS described cases where antifa-affiliated groups posted officers’ names, photos, and home addresses online, followed by threats and harassment. In one case, an officer found their lawn covered in trash and signs with personal insults and their name.

DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin defended ICE personnel, stating, “ICE law enforcement are succeeding to remove terrorists, murderers, pedophiles and the most depraved among us from America’s communities, even as crazed rhetoric from gutter politicians are inspiring a massive increase in assaults against them.” McLaughlin called the violence “reprehensible,” stressing the officers’ commitment to public safety.

DHS Disputes Media Coverage of Enforcement Operations

The DHS also criticized what it called false and misleading coverage by some media organizations. One recent report falsely claimed a man had died in law enforcement custody during an operation that rescued 14 children from trafficking and forced labor. DHS clarified that the individual was not being pursued by law enforcement but fell after climbing onto a roof on his own accord.

Addressing allegations that ICE targets children or separates families, DHS reiterated its policy of allowing mothers to decide whether to leave with their children or designate a guardian. The agency underscored its commitment to protecting vulnerable populations while enforcing federal law.

As assaults rise and political tensions continue, DHS is calling for bipartisan condemnation of violence against ICE officers and greater accuracy in public discourse. The agency maintains that its officials will remain steadfast in their mission to protect American communities from serious criminal threats.