USCIS to add Special Agents with new law enforcement authorization

Last month, USCIS announced that it would be expanding its law enforcement authorities under a new power delegation from the Department of Homeland Security. This creates newly-minted USCIS 1811 classified officers (or “special agents”) who are “empowered to investigate, arrest, and present for prosecution those who violate America’s immigration laws.” The special agents are authorized to carry firearms and execute search and arrest warrants. The USCIS Director is also now authorized to order expedited removal, a deportation process with fewer legal protections for immigrants who have recently entered the US. Lastly, USCIS can also now oversee the entirety of an investigation for potential civil and criminal immigration law violations (USCIS previously referred investigations to ICE). 

Read the full USCIS announcement here.