Former ICE Instructor Testifies New Agent Training Is Deficient and Reduced

In Brief

A former ICE instructor testified that new recruits receive inadequate training due to reduced instructional hours and eliminated courses.

Key Facts

• A former ICE instructor testified before Congress about inadequate training for new recruits amid rapid agency expansion
• Documents released to Congress show significant reductions in instructional hours for ICE recruits
• Courses involving use-of-force training were reportedly eliminated from the curriculum
• Congressional Democrats released documents supporting claims of reduced training hours
• The whistleblower described the training program as 'defective' and 'broken'

What Happened

A former Immigration and Customs Enforcement instructor testified on Capitol Hill that new ICE recruits are receiving insufficient training due to efforts to rapidly increase agency staffing. Documents provided to Congress indicate that key training components, including use-of-force courses, have been cut, resulting in a reduced number of instructional hours. Congressional Democrats released these documents alongside the testimony.

Why It Matters

The testimony and documents raise concerns about the preparedness of new ICE agents to perform their duties safely and effectively. Reduced training could impact enforcement operations and public safety. Lawmakers may consider these issues in oversight and funding decisions related to ICE recruitment and training programs.