El Paso Standard

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has made significant strides in addressing unauthorized employment practices, apprehending over 1,000 illegal workers since January 20. The arrests were made under the direction of the agency's Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) directorate, which also aims to hold businesses accountable for such employment practices.

"This is the highest rate of arrest in HSI’s history," stated HSI acting Executive Associate Director Robert Hammer. According to Hammer, the agency has "subpoenaed the business records of about 1,200 businesses" and proposed nearly "$1 million in fines".

These actions align with President Donald J. Trump's executive order, “Protecting the American People Against Invasion.” This order reinforces the enforcement of provisions within the Immigration and Nationality Act and other federal laws dealing with unauthorized entry and presence in the U.S.

"Businesses that exploit and hire illegal workers are harming the American public," Hammer emphasized. He further noted that ICE's responsibilities include "protecting Americans and enforcing more than 400 laws that relate to immigration."

ICE's worksite enforcement efforts have intensified over the past two months. On April 2, a civil complaint was filed against a Chinese money laundering organization. According to ICE Detroit acting Special Agent in Charge Jared Murphey, this resulted in "the multimillion-dollar seizure of 14 properties, seven bank accounts and 15 vehicles." The case involved the alleged operations of a staffing company supplying illegal workers to an Ohio factory.

Other recent enforcement actions included a large Louisiana operation leading to 11 arrests, a Pennsylvania operation netting four arrests, and a New Jersey case resulting in the custody of 16 illegal workers by ICE.

The government confirms that knowingly hiring illegal workers is a crime, and business owners involved in such practices will face prosecution. Employment eligibility verification is emphasized as key for ensuring legal compliance and protecting employers.

The federal government offers support to businesses through IMAGE, an HSI program providing training on issues like fraudulent documents and forced labor. Organizations are encouraged to partner with the government to strengthen hiring practices and ensure compliance.

ICE encourages the reporting of crimes and suspicious activities by calling 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or via their online tip form. More information on ICE’s mission to enhance public safety is available on X, under the handle @ICEgov.