It’s no secret that ICE has been making headlines around the world, from controversial raids to high-profile deportations. But after Renee Nicole Good — a U.S. citizen — was gunned down by an ICE officer in Minneapolis on Wednesday (Jan. 7), the public was shocked and scrutiny of the agency intensified. Over the years, ICE has grown into a menacing force, seemingly acting as a strong arm under the authority of President Donald Trump. This latest incident has folks outraged, raising urgent questions about oversight and accountability.
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Amid the headlines, political battles, and downright chaos, folks are starting to wonder: who are they really? Let’s break down the origins of this controversial federal agency, known for some of the most diabolical civilian shakedowns we’ve ever seen in the nation.
The U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS)
Before there was U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), there was the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS), the agency responsible for handling immigration enforcement and processing visas and citizenship. Created in 1933, the INS laid the groundwork for today’s immigration system.
Why Was INS Formed?
The INS was created through an executive order that merged the Bureau of Immigration and the Bureau of Naturalization under President Franklin D. Roosevelt per Cornell Law, consolidating federal immigration and naturalization functions into one agency within the Department of Labor.
What Does 9/11 Have to Do With This?
The attacks on 9/11 led to a massive government reshuffle, creating the Department of Homeland Security and giving rise to ICE — turning immigration enforcement into a national security organization prioritizing enhanced security, border control, and removals, per USCIS.
The INS Is Dissolved for ICE
In March 2003, the INS was dissolved as part of the creation of the Department of Homeland Security, per Federal Register. This transition gave rise to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), reshaping how the federal government handles immigration today.
Who The Heck Are These Agents?
With so much chaos surrounding the policies of the controversial organization — and they’re terrifying tactics — folks are actually beginning to wonder, “Who the heck are these people?” Well, we’ve looked into it.
What Does It Take to Join?
ICE agents are trained at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers, where they learn immigration law, criminal investigation, firearms, and arrest procedures. Afterward, they complete agency-specific training on deportations, investigations, and use-of-force policies before entering the field.
ICE Prioritizes ‘The Mission’
While the above adheres to the process on paper, on the website it seems the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement emphasizes those who are committed to the mission — which reads: “America has been invaded by criminals and predators. We need YOU to get them out.” Per the site, an undergrad degree is not required. Their explanation begs the question: where is the professionalism?
Good in Theory, Scary in Practice
ICE was designed to enforce immigration laws and protect the public, but in practice, its raids, detentions, and deportations have sparked widespread controversy and fear — especially in immigrant communities.
Trained For Conflict, Causing Conflict
According to Politico, agents are trained for conflict, yet dish out some of the most controversial tactics we’ve ever seen. Folks have reported even being picked up outside of courthouses where paperwork for citizenship is being worked on.
Detain First, Ask Questions Later
ICE has long faced criticism for prioritizing detention over due process, it seems they often arrest individuals before thoroughly verifying their cases. This approach has fueled fear and uncertainty in immigrant communities across the country.
Black Americans Could Face Deportation
A Jamaican-born veteran who’s lived in the United States for over 50 years — with a clean record — could be facing deportation after a recent traffic stop in Georgia. Protections once implemented are now being revoked, and consequences are evident.
ICE: A Strong Arm for Donald Trump, According to Some
Under Trump, it seems ICE operates as his personal enforcement tool, carrying out aggressive raids in cities like Chicago. Critics say these operations often targeted immigrant communities to advance the administration’s agenda.
The Effects of Enforcement
ICE’s raids and deportations don’t just enforce the law — they upend lives, separating families and leaving communities living in constant fear. The agency’s actions highlight the human toll behind its policies and the lasting impact on immigrants nationwide.
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