DHS says immigration enforcement is not happening at elementary schools

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has recently refuted claims that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents have been removing children from school. In a news release titled “100 Days of Fighting Fake News,” DHS addressed various narratives that have circulated since President Donald Trump took office, including the allegation that ICE agents are conducting immigration enforcement in elementary schools.
According to DHS, ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) focuses on protecting Americans, particularly children, from illegal alien activity, such as potential child sex trafficking. The agency clarified that ICE agents seen at three elementary schools were not there for enforcement purposes but rather for other reasons.
Local news reports in Washington, D.C., highlighted the presence of HSI agents at HD Cooke Elementary School, sparking concerns among the community. Although DHS did not disclose the specific activities of the agents, they confirmed that no enforcement actions were taken at the school. The agents were present for reasons unrelated to immigration enforcement.
Similar incidents were reported at Russel Elementary School and Lillian Elementary School in Los Angeles in early April. DHS explained that HSI agents were conducting wellness checks on children who arrived at the border unaccompanied. These visits were not related to immigration enforcement but rather aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of the children, protecting them from exploitation, abuse, and sex trafficking.
The agency emphasized that under the current administration, efforts are being made to reunite unaccompanied children with their families. Nearly 5,000 children have been successfully reunited with a relative or safe guardian in the past 70 days, thanks to the collaborative efforts of DHS, Secretary Noem, and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.
In conclusion, DHS is committed to safeguarding children and combating illegal activities that threaten their well-being. The agency’s proactive approach to conducting welfare checks on unaccompanied children reflects a dedication to ensuring their safety and preventing exploitation.