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| Trump Administration Reshuffles ICE Leadership Amid Immigration Crackdown |
In a major shake-up within the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the Trump administration has reassigned Caleb Vitello, the acting director of ICE, as part of efforts to accelerate deportations and toughen immigration enforcement. Vitello, who took over the role on January 20, 2025, will now oversee field operations and enforcement efforts within the agency.
Leadership Changes and Reasons Behind the Shift
This leadership shift comes after a series of reassignments within ICE, including the recent removals of Russell Hott and Peter Berg from key enforcement positions. The administration has expressed growing frustration over what it views as slow progress in increasing deportations and arrests of undocumented individuals.
According to officials, the number of daily arrests under ICE has been approximately 826 since Trump resumed office in January. Although this figure is significant, the administration believes it can push the numbers higher, surpassing previous records from the past decade.
Vitello’s Background and New Role
Having served in ICE for 23 years, Vitello previously held the position of assistant director for the Office of Firearms and Tactical Programs. Despite his reassignment, he will continue to play a key role in overseeing arrest operations, ensuring that ICE agents align with the administration’s aggressive immigration policies.
A new acting ICE director is expected to be announced soon, with the administration seeking a leader who will fully enforce its strict deportation agenda.
Intensified Focus on Immigration Enforcement
The Trump administration has recently issued new directives, including a controversial order for ICE agents to locate and deport unaccompanied migrant children. This move has drawn criticism from human rights organizations but aligns with the administration’s push to tighten border security and reduce illegal immigration.
The reshuffling of ICE leadership signals Trump’s determination to toughen immigration policies, ensuring that enforcement operations are carried out swiftly and effectively. With more leadership changes expected in the coming months, the administration is making it clear that immigration remains a top priority.
