ICE, or Immigration and Customs Enforcement seems to constantly be in the news these days, especially in my part of the country. It is now the largest investigative agency under the Department of Homeland Security, which was created after 9/11.
ICE agents prosecute not only immigration cases and customs violations, but because of their cross-border responsibilities have international clout worldwide. This has enabled ICE to become highly active in internet child pornography cases, as well as a widening presence in many violations previously under the purview of the FBI.
ICE is favored by federal prosecutors for the agency's fluidity and flexibility. Unlike its more famous older brother, the FBI, agents of ICE work closely with prosecutors with less interference from their own bosses in the agency. This makes for a nimble investigative arm with international muscle.
Having such a snappy moniker certainly helps their image. I see more ICE presence every day, especially in cases involving children and the internet. Instead of grabbing porn in someone's suitcase crossing back into the U.S. at a Customs stop, ICE has stepped into the realm of the internet where images of children were previously downloaded at will from all over the world.
I see ICE at border stops, including the checkpoints such as Sierra Blanca, Texas. I see them in firearms cases, drug cases, and virtually any kind of Federal case involving virtual or actual crossing of international borders.
If you see ICE in your doorway, better get you a good Federal Criminal Attorney!
For more information on ICE, click here.
