Border Czar Homan Defends Crackdown on Illegal Immigrants Who Commit Crimes

Border Czar Tom Homan has stated that immigration enforcement should prioritize illegal aliens who commit additional crimes to maintain public confidence.

In an interview last June, Homan explained: “The vast majority of Americans believe criminal illegal immigrants need to leave. And if we stick to that prioritization, I think we keep the faith of the American people.”

He added: “And the more we do that, the more the American people will support what President Trump is doing. We have to do it and we have to do it in a humane manner.”

Homan emphasized that while any immigrant present illegally can be subject to arrest and deportation, those who commit additional crimes must receive higher priority.

In contrast to former Border Patrol Commander Greg Bovino, whose enforcement tactics in Los Angeles, Chicago, and Minneapolis triggered widespread protests and legal challenges, Homan has reduced federal involvement in immigration operations. After Bovino was removed from his position, Homan assumed control of immigration duties in Minneapolis and cut the federal workforce by approximately 700 officers.

Homan maintains that “collateral arrests” remain a core element of immigration enforcement with no exceptions. He warned against signaling leniency: “If we send a message to the world that… if you enter illegally, it’s a crime but don’t worry about it — just don’t commit another crime and we’re not looking for you, we can’t send that message.”

The Department of Homeland Security has asserted that enforcement actions align with President Trump’s directives: “There is only one page: the President’s page. Everyone is on the same page.”