Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is an American federal agency whose methods and certain intervention videos spark indignation and viral debates. Its role in implementing immigration laws is now under fire after the death of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old nurse shot dead by agents during an operation in Minneapolis. An event which revived accusations of excessive use of force by ICE agents.
ICE at the heart of controversies
In several large American cities, videos widely shared on social networks show federal ICE agents in controversial situations, leading to confrontations that sparked protests and public criticism. HAS Minneapolisimages showing the death ofAlex Prettishot dead during an operation by federal agents including officers of theICEsparked a wave of national anger and intense discussions about the conduct of federal forces; these videos were massively commented on online and analyzed by the international press.
Other shared content shows muscular methodsincluding the use of pepper spray or direct confrontations with civilians, fueling criticism that agents use excessive force in some operations.
An agency with multiple missions
L’ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) reports to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and has the role ofenforce immigration laws as well as to fight against international trafficking and transnational crimes within the United States. Its agents intervene far from the borders in investigations, detention or deportation operations, and complex legal actions.
The missions differ according to the divisions:
- Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO): arrests and detentions of illegal immigrants.
- Homeland Security Investigations (HSI): investigates serious crimes such as human trafficking, drug trafficking or financial fraud.
- Technical and logistical support to support national and international operations.
Profiles sought and recruitment criteria
To integrate theICE as an operational agent, several requirements apply:
- Rigorous vetting: A thorough character investigation, medical testing, drug testing and psychological evaluation are part of the selection process.
- Specialized Training: Candidates receive training at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) or other approved centers in applicable laws, investigative procedures, crisis management, weapons use, and field tactics.
- Valued skills: previous experience in law enforcement, the army or in linguistic and legal fields is often an important asset to succeed in the complex missions that await agents. (General sources ICE profiles)
The training lasts several weeks to several months according to specialization, and agents must follow regularly ongoing modules to keep their skills up to date.
