Tom Homan: Democrats ‘lying’ about ICE facility conditions

Border czar Tom Homan refutes claims of inhumane conditions at a New Jersey ICE facility. He states, “Democratic politicians were lying” about alleged hunger strikes and mistreatment after personally inspecting the medical, recreation, and housing units. He found the facility well-maintained and even ate the same meal as detainees to verify food quality.

The Department of Homeland Security condemned comedian Rosie O’Donnell and clarified misinformation after she made bold claims about ICE facilities. In one of O’Donnell’s TikTok posts, she criticized the Trump administration, comparing ICE facilities to concentration camps.

A DHS spokesperson rejected such comparisons, highlighting that they were contributing to increased assaults, vehicular attacks, and death threats against ICE officers. The spokesperson emphasized that comparisons of detention centers to internment camps are unfounded and irresponsible. They also criticized celebrities who remain silent about the humanitarian crisis created by open border policies.

The spokesperson outlined ICE’s dedication to locating unaccompanied children entering the border while declaring that agents focus on protecting the nation. Mentioning that a significant majority of Americans support the deportation of criminal illegal aliens, they noted that ICE officers put their lives at risk daily to arrest violent offenders.

ICE conducts lawful arrests under U.S. regulations, using reasonable suspicion for immigration investigations and probable cause for arrests. The Supreme Court has upheld these practices, ensuring alignment with the Fourth Amendment.

“Claims about poor conditions at ICE facilities are false,” a DHS spokesperson insisted.

The spokesperson assured that detainees receive three meals daily, clean water, clothing, bedding, and personal hygiene items. They also have phone access to maintain communication with family and legal counsel. The meals are reviewed by certified dieticians, ensuring high detention standards compared to U.S. prisons.

ICE provides comprehensive healthcare to detainees, including medical, dental, and mental health services, available from the moment an individual enters custody.

Regarding pregnant detainees, the DHS reported that pregnancies are rare, accounting for only 0.15% of those in custody. Pregnant detainees receive specialized care, including prenatal visits and postpartum follow-up services.

O’Donnell has consistently criticized ICE’s practices, often equating them with historical atrocities. In response, the DHS spokesperson stated that detention is voluntary, encouraging illegal migrants to self-deport using the CBP Home App. Those who do not comply face arrest and deportation.

Under current policies, ICE targets violent offenders predominantly. Nearly 70% of arrests involve individuals charged or convicted of crimes within the U.S.

Fox News reached out to Rosie O’Donnell’s representatives for comments but did not receive a response.

Alexander Hall contributed to this report. Tips can be sent to [email protected].