In a controversial move, reports have surfaced that the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) plans to create a special law enforcement task force dedicated to cracking down on fraudulent immigration applications. This force will also target lawyers and applicants involved in document forgery.
The plan involves training around 200 federal agents in the coming months with advanced fraud detection techniques. These agents will be granted broad powers, including carrying firearms and making arrests within the United States.
A Shift in USCIS’s Traditional Role
USCIS has long been viewed as an agency responsible for granting immigration “benefits” such as green cards, visas, and naturalization, rather than enforcing laws. This reputation reassured immigrants that they could share personal information without fear.
However, under President Donald Trump’s immigration agenda, the agency’s role is being redefined to align more closely with law enforcement objectives.
Statements from USCIS Leadership
USCIS Director Joe Edlow emphasized that the initiative is not intended to discourage genuine applicants but to deter fraud. He stated:“I don’t expect this to impact people who want to apply honestly — only the fraudsters. And that is exactly what we want.”
Broader Immigration Crackdowns
The changes go beyond just fraud enforcement. Recent USCIS policies include:
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Reviewing applicants’ social media accounts for potentially “anti-American” content.
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Updating procedural manuals to allow penalties against those suspected of engaging in activities deemed hostile to the United States.
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Expanding collaboration between federal and local agencies to support nationwide immigration enforcement operations, including the mass deportation campaigns previously promised by Trump.