Heightened Threats Against Homeland Security Personnel

Homeland Security officials are still dedicated to enforcing deportation orders, yet they face a surge of threats to their safety. Recently, reports indicate an alarming 8,000% increase in death threats aimed at immigration staff.

On Tuesday, twins were apprehended in Abescon, New Jersey, accused of issuing death threats against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, as well as a prominent spokesperson from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), according to a DHS statement.

In the course of their alleged actions, the twins reportedly encouraged others to “shoot ICE on sight” via social media platforms. They also purportedly threatened to hang DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin.

“Let’s make this a lesson for those who think it’s acceptable to threaten our dedicated law enforcement officers,” said Todd Lyons, Acting Director of ICE. “If you threaten us, we will find you, arrest you, and pursue legal action to the fullest extent. We are not intimidated.”

Lyons emphasized that, “The extreme messaging from some media, political leaders, and activists directly contributes to the huge rise in threats against those protecting our nation. If you target our law enforcement or DHS personnel, we will come after you.”

Emilio Roman-Flores faces multiple charges including possession of an illegal assault weapon, conspiracy to make terroristic threats, and intimidation. His brother, Ricardo Antonio Roman-Flores, is charged with conspiracy to commit terroristic threats. Following their arrest, both were taken to detain at the Absecon Police Station and are reportedly U.S. citizens.