Concerns Raised by Acting ICE Director Over Attacks on Federal Agents

Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons stated on Tuesday that federal immigration officers are experiencing “constant obstruction” and “constant attacks,” particularly highlighted by a recent incident in San Antonio where an illegal immigrant suspect tried to evade arrest by ramming a vehicle.

In a video of the event, migrants can be seen attempting to escape by crashing into cars that were blocking their route. Lyons discussed this on Fox News’ “Hannity,” where he was queried about the relationship between anti-ICE rhetoric from Democrats and such incidents.

“You will see incidents like this occur when elected officials call for disruption of ICE operations nationwide,” he responded. “Officers are attempting to arrest individuals who are illegally in the country, and these people are using their vehicles as weapons.”

He mentioned that one investigator required hospitalization due to a neck injury sustained when his vehicle was hit during the altercation.

“This is the reality for agents at ICE daily,” he emphasized. “It’s a continual challenge, and such attacks are becoming more frequent. This isn’t just a danger for the agents; it poses risks for families and the public at large. This must change.”

Lyons also asserted that “criminal organizations” are actively organizing to obstruct immigration enforcement efforts.

“It’s a constitutional right to protest, sure, but when groups form to blatantly disrupt law enforcement, that crosses a line into criminal activity. We’re investigating these issues with Homeland Security and the FBI. Groups cannot unlawfully obstruct law enforcement operations; they must be held accountable,” he remarked.

He was also asked about comments made by Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner, who suggested he would prosecute ICE agents involved in illegal activities during city operations. Krasner did clarify, however, that these threats wouldn’t apply to “honest, decent, moral” officers.

“My agents haven’t committed any crimes,” Lyons insisted. “So, the District Attorney doesn’t need to worry about targeting my team. We are enforcing the law to ensure safety in his city. He should be more focused on sanctuary policies that could bring threatening individuals back into neighborhoods, enabling crimes like fentanyl trafficking and human trafficking,” he suggested.

Lyons mentioned a separate incident in Minnesota where American citizen Renee Nicole Goode was shot and killed by ICE agent Jonathan Ross, an event that has drawn significant criticism. Local authorities and residents have labeled it a homicide, calling for Ross’s prosecution, while some lawmakers argue it was justified.