ICE Officer Assaults Surge Over 1,600% Amidst Political Rhetoric, DHS Secretary Says
Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin attributes the rise in attacks on ICE officers to 'sanctuary politicians' and anti-ICE protests.
Assaults against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers have increased by 1,649% since the beginning of the Trump administration's immigration enforcement actions, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Between January 20, 2025, and September 20, 2026, there were 647 reported assaults against ICE personnel, a significant rise compared to the 37 incidents recorded during the Biden administration's first two years.
DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin stated that the increase is fueled by opposition to immigration enforcement, blaming "vicious lies" spread by "sanctuary politicians and their foot soldiers who are involved in anti-ICE riots and other acts of violence." He urged these politicians to "stop attacking federal law enforcement, stop putting the needs of illegal aliens ahead of the safety of American citizens, and to start working with us to make America safe again."
The DHS has cited instances where elected officials, predominantly Democrats, have accused ICE of terrorizing communities. This criticism comes despite the agency apprehending individuals with criminal records, including convictions for murder, child sex crimes, terrorism, and drug trafficking. Some lawmakers have called for the abolition of ICE, with others drawing comparisons between the agency and historical instruments of terror like the SS and the Gestapo. Representative Jasmine Crockett, D-Texas, has reportedly likened the agency to "slave patrols."
Reports indicate that anti-ICE protesters have brandished weapons, made threats, and thrown objects at officers, impeding law enforcement operations. In October 2025, an illegal immigrant in Dallas, Texas, was arrested for allegedly posting a video on TikTok soliciting the murder of ICE personnel. In July 2025, a group of protesters opened fire on ICE officers at the Prairieland Detention Center in Alvarado, Texas, wounding one officer. Eight individuals linked to that incident received prison sentences ranging from 30 to 100 years. In June 2025, a member of the Tren de Aragua gang in Bellevue, Nebraska, was accused of assaulting an ICE agent, causing serious head and arm injuries, and is facing attempted murder charges.
Mullin's remarks come as many Democratic-led jurisdictions have strengthened their sanctuary policies, limiting cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities. The backlash against ICE has intensified amid the Trump administration's focus on targeting undocumented immigrants with criminal records and final removal orders.