Summary
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) addressed reports that over a third of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) recruits failed the physical fitness tests required at the training academy. DHS stated that the figures were inaccurate and most recruits are experienced law enforcement officers. The department is working to expand ICE by recruiting more officers due to increased deportation operations under the Trump administration.
Key Facts
- Over a third of ICE recruits reportedly failed basic fitness tests at a training academy in Georgia.
- DHS claimed these figures were inaccurate, noting most recruits are former law enforcement officers.
- The agency received more than 175,000 job applications and is offering benefits like signing bonuses and student loan repayment.
- ICE's fitness and training standards remain high, despite the push to hire more officers.
- DHS has removed the upper age limit for new applicants to attract younger recruits.
- Training includes activities like obstacle courses and firearms training.
- A new law allocates $170 billion to boost border and homeland security, supporting ICE expansion.
- The administration's increased deportation goals have put ICE recruitment in the national spotlight.
