Written by Mathew Silverman, National President, Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association - Board of Advisors, Law Enforcement Today
As we have seen in the past few weeks, President Trump is following through on his promises to combat illegal immigration.
By assembling a strong team—including Secretary Noem, Tom Homan, and other dedicated leaders—his administration is already making significant strides in securing our borders, reducing the flow of fentanyl into our communities, and enforcing immigration laws.
Our law enforcement heroes—at the federal, state, and local levels—want nothing more than to protect our fellow citizens and our communities from all forms of violence.
Over the past four years, we have witnessed a much more open border policy, allowing illegal immigrants to enter the country at alarming rates. Last year, after hearing misinformation from the media and social platforms claiming that federal agents were not working with local law enforcement, I had the opportunity to visit the border firsthand.
One widely circulated claim was that Border Patrol was not allowed in Shelby Park in Eagle Pass Texas. However, during my visit, I personally witnessed Border Patrol dropping boats into the Rio Grande within Shelby Park, proving how misinformation can be twisted into false narratives.
This April, I will return to the border to see firsthand what has changed. I will meet with our incredible federal law enforcement personnel who are carrying out the border mission with remarkable skill, professionalism, and courtesy—ensuring that all violators are treated with respect while enforcing the law.
With border crossings now at an all-time low, it is time to focus on the violent illegal immigrants who have already spread across our country. Gang members and foreign nationals with terrorist or other criminal ties who have infiltrated our communities pose serious threats to public safety.
For years, law enforcement officers have had their hands tied, restricted from taking necessary action. Many officers even left the profession in frustration, unable to do the job they swore an oath to perform.
Politics must be removed from the equation when it comes to keeping American citizens safe. Sanctuary cities, which limit local law enforcement’s cooperation with federal immigration authorities, only make matters worse.
These policies shield illegal immigrants from prosecution and deportation, creating safe havens for those who break our laws. This not only strains relationships between local and federal law enforcement but also sends a message to illegal immigrants about where they can go to evade accountability.
Some argue that sanctuary cities help build stronger relationships between law enforcement and immigrant communities, ultimately leading to better crime prevention. However, this is simply not the case—especially when it comes to violent offenders. Evidence of this can be seen in the number of 287(g) agreements that have been signed or planned since President Trump took office. See this: https://www.ice.gov/
In many areas, illegal immigrants continue to be released back into the community, posing a significant public safety threat. Law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to protect Americans, yet poor policies allow dangerous criminals to walk free and continue harming innocent people. These offenders, having been released once, often believe they will be released again—sometimes escalating their crimes even further. For example:
· ICE arrested Julio Cesar Henao-Cordoba, a 38-year-old citizen of Colombia wanted by law enforcement authorities in Panama for aggravated rape of a child, outside his residence in State College, March 14.
· ICE apprehended an illegally present 29-year-old Brazilian alien convicted in his native country for manslaughter while driving a motor vehicle Jan. 25 in Waltham.
· ICE removed Orbelin Benitez-Carbajal, a 49-year-old previously deported criminal alien convicted of manslaughter, to Mexico March 17.
Additional examples can be found: https://www.ice.gov/
We must enforce the laws of our nation without political interference. While not all illegal immigrants are bad people, the fact remains that they are in the U.S. in violation of federal law. Those who follow the legal immigration process invest time, energy, and effort to become part of this country the right way. Ignoring illegal entry disrespects their sacrifices and undermines the rule of law.
This country has already witnessed how tough on crime Attorney General Pam Bondi is—an exceptional choice for this critical position. With her leadership, we can expect an increase in arrests, more prosecutions, and a stronger effort to detain or deport violent individuals.
U.S. Attorneys across the country are actively reviewing cases, and this renewed focus on law enforcement will have a significant impact on crime levels nationwide. Most importantly, these efforts will contribute to the ultimate goal: keeping the American people safer.
It’s time for real solutions. We must work together—across all levels of government—to ensure the safety and security of the American people.
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