Training for New ICE Agents Is ‘Deficient’ and ‘Broken,’ Whistle-Blower Says

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by Nicholas Nehamas and Hamed Aleaziz

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

A former ICE official has blown the whistle on significant shortcomings in the agency's training program, highlighting critical cuts that leave new agents ill-prepared for their roles. Ryan Schwank, who resigned from his position at the ICE law enforcement academy, revealed during testimony to congressional Democrats that the training curriculum was drastically reduced by 240 hours over five months. This reduction eliminated essential courses on constitutional rights, legal procedures, and use of force simulations, leaving recruits without a solid foundation in necessary skills. The documents released by Senate Democrats corroborate Schwank's claims, showing that ICE agents now train for fewer hours than before the Trump administration's hiring surge. Key classes on immigration law and proper detention protocols were also removed from the syllabus, raising concerns about the preparedness of new agents who graduate despite these cuts. These revelations come amid a rise in violent encounters between ICE officers and the public, heightening fears that inadequate training could lead to increased chaos and legal issues. The implications for public safety are significant, as poorly trained agents may be more likely to engage in unconstitutional actions or use excessive force. This issue is particularly concerning given recent incidents where ICE officers have been involved in fatal shootings of American citizens. Schwank's testimony and the released documents underscore broader concerns about the conduct and readiness of DHS agents, casting doubt on their ability to enforce laws effectively while respecting constitutional limits. This matter is crucial for readers interested in news and public safety, as it highlights potential systemic failures within ICE that could endanger both communities and

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/23/2026