Trump DHS slams more ‘sob story’ reporting about illegal gang members

The Trump Department of Homeland Security has taken aim at Reuters for what it deems as “sob story” reporting on illegal gang members. The outlet recently reported on suspected members of the Tren de Aragua gang forming an “S-O-S” sign at a Texas detention center, leading to backlash from the DHS.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the DHS criticized the mainstream media for their coverage of criminal gang members, specifically highlighting a self-admitted member of Tren de Aragua. The DHS stated that the real issue at hand is the previous administration’s practice of releasing gang members into American communities.

Tren de Aragua, also known as TdA, is a violent international criminal organization with ties to Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro. The group has been linked to numerous high-profile migrant crime cases, including the tragic killing of Georgia nursing student Laken Riley and the seizure of an entire apartment building in Aurora, Colorado. The Trump State Department has designated Tren de Aragua as a foreign terrorist organization.

Reuters reported that 31 Venezuelan illegals and suspected TdA members formed an SOS sign at the Bluebonnet detention center in Anson, Texas. These individuals are facing potential deportation and had been slated for transfer to the high-security Terrorist Confinement Center in El Salvador before a legal ruling intervened. Despite this, Reuters highlighted the detainees’ fears of being sent to El Salvador’s notorious maximum-security prison.

Two of the migrants at the center, Diover Millan Leon, 24, and Jeferson Escalona Hernandez, 19, were identified in the Reuters report. Escalona Hernandez expressed concerns for his safety, while Millan Leon’s wife described his desperation and plea to be freed soon.

DHS disputed the portrayal of the situation, revealing that both men are confirmed members of Tren de Aragua. Escalona Hernandez, who entered the U.S. illegally in 2024, admitted to being a Tren de Aragua member. Millan Leon, who was arrested near Brownsville, Texas in 2023 and later released, was also confirmed as a TdA member.

Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin condemned Tren de Aragua as one of the most violent and ruthless terrorist gangs, emphasizing their horrific crimes. She criticized the previous administration for releasing these gang members into American communities, asserting that President Trump and Secretary Noem have ended the practice of catch and release.

McLaughlin called out Reuters for their irresponsible reporting, questioning why they focus on the stories of gang members while neglecting their American victims. Fox News Digital reached out to Reuters for comment but has not received a response.

In conclusion, the DHS’s strong response to Reuters’ coverage underscores the ongoing challenges posed by criminal gangs like Tren de Aragua and the importance of prioritizing public safety and national security.