Newly confirmed Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem wasted no time tackling illegal immigration and public safety threats. On Tuesday, she joined an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raid in New York City, a sanctuary city known for its refusal to fully cooperate with federal immigration enforcement.

In a video posted on X (formerly Twitter), Noem highlighted the arrest of a “criminal alien with kidnapping, assault, and burglary charges,” praising ICE for their work. “Dirtbags like this will continue to be removed from our streets,” she declared, underscoring her commitment to removing dangerous individuals from the country.

Just now.

Enforcement operation in NYC. Criminal alien with kidnapping, assault & burglary charges is now in custody – thanks to @ICE.

Dirtbags like this will continue to be removed from our streets. pic.twitter.com/fRpJBdmqSl

— Secretary Kristi Noem (@Sec_Noem) January 28, 2025

Targeting Violent Criminals in Sanctuary Cities
The raid, which was conducted at dawn, focused on violent offenders, including murderers, kidnappers, and burglars. Among the arrests was a Dominican national wanted on an Interpol Red Notice for a double homicide in the Dominican Republic. ICE confirmed the operation was part of a broader crackdown across the U.S., with support from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Justice Department.

This raid follows a nationwide effort to remove public safety threats. In the first week of the administration, DHS reported 7,300 deportations and 1,179 arrests in a single day. Deportation flights have already been sent to countries including Mexico, Jordan, Brazil, and El Salvador.

Cracking Down on Sanctuary City Policies
New York City, like other sanctuary cities, has resisted cooperation with ICE detainers—requests for local authorities to turn over illegal immigrants in custody. However, Mayor Eric Adams has softened his stance recently, indicating a willingness to work with ICE in deporting violent criminals. Adams met with Border Czar Tom Homan ahead of the administration’s inauguration to discuss how the city could better collaborate on public safety.

America First on Immigration
Noem’s leadership at DHS is already making waves, demonstrating a hardline approach to illegal immigration and prioritizing the safety of American communities. Her boots-on-the-ground participation in Tuesday’s raid sends a strong message: sanctuary policies won’t stand in the way of enforcing the law.

Under the new administration, it’s clear that the America First agenda on immigration is back in full force. Stay tuned as this administration continues to deliver on its promises to secure the border and protect American lives.