Biden-Harris Administration Accused of Releasing Over 650,000 Immigrants with Criminal Records

ICE Data Reveals Shocking Numbers

Recent data from the US Customs and Immigration Enforcement (ICE) indicates that more than 650,000 immigrants with criminal records were released in the United States from mid-May 2023 to the end of July 2024.

Response to Rep. Tony Gonzales

In response to a letter from Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-TX) in March, Deputy DHS Director Patrick J. Lechleitner stated that as of July 21, 2024, there were 662,566 noncitizens with criminal records on ICE's national docket. This number includes those detained by ICE and those on the agency's non-detained docket. Among these, 435,729 are convicted criminals, and 226,847 have pending criminal charges.

Convicted Criminals Among Released Immigrants

Out of the released immigrants, over 13,000 have been convicted of homicide and 15,000 of sexual assault. These individuals are now free to move around the country. Rep. Gonzales expressed his concern over these numbers, stating that Americans should feel safe in their communities.

The Role of "Sanctuary" Cities

ICE has pointed a finger at "sanctuary" cities, accusing them of contributing to the problem. The agency argues that while these jurisdictions may be concerned about maintaining trust with immigrant communities, their policies can inadvertently protect dangerous criminals who often victimize the same communities they aim to serve.

DHS Efforts to Remove Illegal Immigrants

The letter also highlighted the DHS' efforts to remove illegal immigrants. From mid-May 2023 through the end of July 2024, DHS removed or returned over 893,600 individuals, including more than 138,300 individuals in family units. Despite these efforts, the Biden administration has been criticized for releasing many immigrants who arrived at the U.S. border into the country's interior, coinciding with a decrease in deportations as the focus shifted to prioritizing public safety and national security threats.

Criticism of Biden-Harris Administration

House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Mark Green criticized the Biden-Harris administration for releasing a large number of illegal immigrants with criminal records into American communities. He argued that this practice defies common sense and that DHS law enforcement has been directed to mass-release illegal immigrants known to have criminal convictions or facing charges for serious crimes. He called for the administration to uphold the laws they swore to protect.

Bottom Line

These recent revelations about the release of a large number of immigrants with criminal records into the U.S. have sparked a heated debate. The question remains whether the current administration's immigration policies are prioritizing public safety and national security. What are your thoughts on this issue? Share this article with your friends and let us know your views. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is available every day at 6 pm.