Deportations: Trump grants agents power to raid churches, schools
The Trump administration has reversed policies that previously protected sensitive locations like schools, churches, and hospitals from immigration enforcement, granting U.S. immigration authorities the authority to arrest individuals in these areas.
This policy shift ends over a decade of restrictions that shielded such locations from immigration raids.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which oversees Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP), announced the change, emphasizing the need to eliminate spaces where individuals could evade arrest.
In a statement, DHS officials asserted that “criminals will no longer be able to hide in America’s schools and churches,” and that the administration trusts law enforcement to exercise “common sense” in these operations.
READ ALSO: Trump vows mass deportation to stop illegal entries
The new directive, issued by Acting DHS Secretary Benjamine Huffman, also reintroduces the nationwide use of expedited removal, allowing ICE to swiftly deport undocumented individuals who cannot prove they have lived in the U.S. for more than two years. These changes are part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to intensify immigration enforcement.
In addition to these measures, President Trump signed a series of executive actions this week, including suspending the refugee program, restricting access to an app that facilitates entry into the U.S., and enhancing cooperation between ICE and local law enforcement. ICE agents are now set to conduct nationwide operations aimed at arresting and deporting undocumented individuals.
Tom Homan, Trump’s border czar, confirmed that ICE officers will begin actively enforcing these new policies immediately. Advocacy organizations, however, have strongly opposed the changes. The Center for Law and Social Policy raised concerns about the negative impact on immigrant families, particularly those with U.S.-citizen children, warning that these policies could deter families from seeking medical care, education, and disaster relief. The group also expressed fear that children could witness traumatic encounters with immigration officials.
Religious leaders have also voiced their opposition. During an inaugural prayer service, the Episcopal bishop of Washington urged the administration to show greater compassion for immigrants and vulnerable populations.
Follow the Neptune Prime channel on WhatsApp:
Do you have breaking news, interview request, opinion, suggestion, or want your event covered? Email us at neptuneprime2233@gmail.com
