In recent weeks, Los Angeles has become a focal point for federal immigration enforcement, sparking debates and legal challenges across the city.
Many residents, however, are left puzzled about the identities of the federal agents conducting these operations, especially when they appear in unmarked vehicles, dressed in street clothes, and sometimes concealing their identities.
This confusion stems primarily from the presence of multiple federal agencies under the umbrella of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
DHS was established in response to the September 11 attacks and encompasses a variety of responsibilities, including disaster response, counterterrorism, and border management.
Within DHS, three primary agencies are involved in immigration enforcement: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
Recently, federal agents were spotted at Dodger Stadium, leading to protests from onlookers who assumed they were ICE agents. Protesters carried signs declaring “ICE out of L.A.”
However, these officials were actually CBP agents, who stated they were present for a brief time and not conducting any enforcement operations.
To clarify, immigration officials typically reveal their identities verbally, indicating they are from ICE or DHS, and may wear vests that identify them as ICE officers or Homeland Security agents during operations.
Tricia McLaughlin, assistant secretary of Homeland Security, defended the agents’ appearance, stating their choice to wear masks is a precaution against potential targeting by violent gangs.
What about the role of each agency?
**U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)**
ICE has been active in Los Angeles, notably raiding a fashion warehouse earlier this month, resulting in the arrest of over 40 immigrant workers.
ICE’s primary mission centers on identifying, arresting, detaining, and deporting individuals who are in the U.S. illegally.
The agency particularly focuses on public safety threats, such as undocumented immigrants with criminal convictions, gang members, and those who have re-entered the country after having been removed.
**Homeland Security Investigations (HSI)**
HSI, another division within the DHS and part of ICE, also engaged in operations in Los Angeles two months prior to the recent raids.
In May, HSI officials conducted a raid at a nightclub, apprehending 36 individuals suspected of being in the U.S. unlawfully.
HSI is tasked with a broader mission, focusing on investigations related to human trafficking, financial fraud, drug smuggling, and other serious crimes that affect both the U.S. and international communities.
**U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)**
CBP has also had a presence in Los Angeles, with recent operations resulting in the arrest of 39 undocumented individuals in Hollywood and San Fernando.
CBP primarily operates at ports of entry and monitors southern U.S. borders to prevent unauthorized crossings and smuggling activities.
They are responsible for enforcing laws regarding customs and immigration at airports, land crossings, and seaports.
**Military Presence: National Guard and U.S. Marines**
In addition to the federal immigration agents, Los Angeles has seen the deployment of National Guard troops, the number of whom is currently unclear.
Officials state that the Guard’s role has been largely centered on protecting federal properties within the city.
There has been resistance to the National Guard’s deployment as California officials question the necessity of military presence in urban areas.
Meanwhile, some U.S. Marines have also been stationed in Los Angeles under a task force arrangement.
According to Air Force Gen. Gregory Guillot, the Marines are limited in their authority to defend federal personnel and properties and do not possess powers of arrest.
Local opposition to the military’s presence continues, with many advocating for a different approach to managing public safety and immigration issues.
**Confusion and Clarity Moving Forward**
As federal immigration enforcement operations continue to draw attention and generate public concern, the lack of clarity regarding which agency is conducting operations only exacerbates tensions within the community.
The distinct roles and responsibilities of ICE, HSI, and CBP highlight the complexity of immigration enforcement in Los Angeles.
Ongoing demonstrations and protests may shape the narrative surrounding immigration policy and enforcement measures, and the community’s response to these actions will undoubtedly influence future federal operations.
With an increasing focus on the enforcement and regulation of immigration, understanding who is involved and their specific roles is essential for residents of Los Angeles and those tracking the unfolding situation.
image source from：latimes
