Homeland Security Secretary Talks Tough on Crime in NYC

On Thursday, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem expressed strong sentiments about the Trump administration’s commitment to protecting Americans, stating, “we are attacking.” Her comments came during a visit to New York City, where she highlighted the success of Operation Salvo. This operation was initiated in response to an attack on an off-duty U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer last July.

Noem mentioned that the investigation into the incident pointed to involvement from the Trinitarios, a notorious criminal group in New York. Alarmingly, she noted that these individuals had been shielded by sanctuary city policies. “Operation Salvo is just the beginning of a broader, ongoing effort to go after not only transnational criminal organizations and networks, but illegal criminal aliens across the country,” she asserted.

She emphasized the administration’s approach: “We’re attacking. The Trump administration is using every means possible to protect the American people. If you’re a criminal illegal alien, we’re coming to get you,” she said firmly. Noem highlighted that those who threaten American citizens or law enforcement will face serious consequences. “We will find you and bring you to justice,” she warned.

Noem also provided some data: 54 individuals were apprehended as a result of Operation Salvo, which involved collaboration between various agencies such as CBP and local law enforcement. “Those arrested are members of a violent transnational gang involved in arms trafficking, human smuggling, drug distribution, and armed robbery,” she acknowledged, adding that some had previously perpetrated violent acts throughout New York City. Furthermore, she mentioned that over 60 percent of those taken into custody had already been deported and were facing legal repercussions in their home countries.