Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is actively participating in the front-line operations of deportation raids mandated by President Donald Trump.
On Tuesday morning, Noem directed approximately 100 federal agents in a pre-dawn operation in the capital of Arizona, resulting in the apprehension of three illegal migrants on various charges, including weapons and drug offenses, as well as involvement in a money laundering operation.
The New York Post reported from the scene as Noem skillfully avoided a kick from one suspect wearing slip-on shoes, humorously remarking, “You do not intimidate me with your Crocs.” The operation, which was led by agents from the Phoenix Immigration and Customs Enforcement and supported by a coalition of federal law enforcement and immigration agencies, successfully captured three illegal immigrant felons with extensive criminal histories, according to The Post.
Clad in complete tactical attire, featuring a flak jacket and her distinctive two-tone gold Rolex, Noem convened with agents from ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations, Homeland Security Investigations, the FBI, and the Drug Enforcement Administration in a poorly illuminated underground parking facility. She greeted the officers with a handshake, expressed her gratitude for their service, and committed to ensuring they receive the necessary resources to enhance their operations.
The collaborative efforts among agencies are being significantly intensified. This initiative is expanding rapidly across the nation, ensuring that anyone residing in the country illegally and engaging in criminal activities will be held accountable for their actions,” Noem stated to The Post.
The last individual taken into custody during the operations was Luis Garcia-Sanchez, who is reportedly associated with the infamous 18th Street Gang.
As per the Department of Homeland Security, he was sought for felony drug-related offenses dating back to 1987 and had been previously ordered to leave the United States on two occasions.
When the agents arrived with the warrant, Garcia-Sanchez was found without shoes and enveloped in a strong smell of marijuana. His spouse brought him his shoes before the officers placed him in a police vehicle that was on standby.
As he was escorted away in handcuffs, the 61-year-old informed The Post that he had severed ties with the Los Angeles-based gang and highlighted his current role as a grandfather.
He expressed to Noem from the rear of a police vehicle, with a tone of regret, that he has three children and wishes for them to avoid the gang lifestyle that he once led.
The DHS chief replied, “Address the repercussions of your illegal actions. Set an example of how to be a better individual.”