ICE officer training is ‘deficient’ and ‘broken,’ former agency lawyer tells congressional forum - AP News
AP News
February 23, 2026
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The training program for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers has been criticized as "deficient" and "broken," according to a former agency lawyer who testified at a congressional forum. The lawyer, who previously worked within ICE, highlighted serious concerns about the lack of adequate preparation for enforcement personnel, raising questions about the effectiveness and accountability of immigration operations.
During the forum, the lawyer detailed how ICE officers are often unprepared to handle complex legal and ethical situations they encounter in the field. This includes interactions with vulnerable populations, such as asylum seekers and families separated at the border. The testimony underscored broader issues within the agency, including insufficient oversight, inconsistent training standards, and a lack of transparency in how enforcement actions are carried out.
The critique comes amid growing scrutiny of ICE's operations and their impact on immigration policies. Critics argue that inadequate training not only compromises public safety but also undermines trust in the agency's ability to enforce laws fairly and humanely. The lawyer emphasized the need for reforms, including enhanced training protocols, better recruitment practices, and greater accountability measures to address these systemic weaknesses.
This issue matters because ICE officers play a critical role in enforcing immigration laws, often making high-stakes decisions that affect individuals' lives and public safety. If their training is insufficient, it raises concerns about the agency's effectiveness, fairness, and compliance with legal standards. Addressing these deficiencies is essential to restoring confidence in ICE's operations and ensuring that enforcement efforts align with both legal requirements and ethical standards.
The criticism also highlights broader challenges within federal law enforcement agencies, particularly those involved in immigration enforcement. As debates over immigration policy intensify, the need for transparency, accountability, and proper training becomes even more critical. This issue not only impacts how ICE officers perform their duties but also has far-reaching implications for public trust, immigration reform efforts, and the safety of communities across the United States.
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Originally published on AP News on 2/23/2026