ICE Whistle-Blower Says Training Is ‘Broken,’ and OpenAI Faces Questions About Mass Shooter

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by Tracy Mumford, Will Jarvis, Ian Stewart and Adam Satariano

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The latest news highlights critical issues across law enforcement, technology, and international affairs. A former ICE official revealed that the agency's training program is "deficient" and "broken," raising concerns about border security and immigration enforcement. Meanwhile, Mexican authorities tracked El Mencho, a notorious cartel leader, by following his lover, showcasing an unusual tactic in the fight against organized crime. OpenAI also came under scrutiny as Canada pressed for answers about its chatbot technology's potential role in aiding a mass shooter. Additionally, Iran faced escalating tensions as students protested for a second day despite government crackdowns, while authorities turned to digital surveillance tools to suppress dissent. The training scandal at ICE centers on Ryan Schwank, a former official who testified before Congress that the agency dismantled its program over five months. His allegations point to potential gaps in agent preparedness, which could compromise border security and immigration enforcement efforts. The situation has sparked calls for accountability and reforms within ICE. In Mexico, the capture of El Mencho marked a significant victory against drug cartels but also highlighted the lengths authorities went to track him. By following his lover, Mexican forces gained critical intelligence, underscoring the unpredictable nature of combating organized crime and the personal risks involved in such operations. The OpenAI investigation by Canada reflects growing concerns over AI's role in violent crimes. Questions remain about how the company's technology could be misused, raising ethical dilemmas and prompting regulatory scrutiny to prevent potential harms. In Iran, ongoing protests demonstrate widespread frustration with government policies, despite efforts to suppress dissent through digital surveillance. The use of advanced tools to track protesters underscores the global trend of authoritarian regimes

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/24/2026