'Categorically false': DHS lashes out at report on 'baseless lawsuit' over agency arrests
The Department of Homeland Security lashed out at a report on Thursday that the agency was accused of "arbitrarily" arresting people as part of its deportation operations.
The conservative Washington Examiner reported Thursday that Washington, D.C. residents filed a class action lawsuit against DHS, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Department of Justice, and other federal officials involved in immigration enforcement activities. It accuses defendants of making “warrantless immigration arrests without probable cause."
DHS responded to the report in a statement on its official X account.
"Allegations that DHS law enforcement officers engage in 'racial profiling' are disgusting, reckless, and categorically FALSE," the post reads in part. "What makes someone a target for immigration enforcement is if they are illegally in the U.S.—NOT their skin color, race, or ethnicity."
"Under the fourth amendment (sic) of the U.S. Constitution, DHS law enforcement uses 'reasonable suspicion' to make arrests," it added. "There are no 'indiscriminate stops' being made. The Supreme Court recently vindicated us on this question."
"DHS enforces federal immigration law without fear, favor, or prejudice. Race-baiting opportunism in the form of a baseless lawsuit is no better than when it comes from politicians or activists," the post added.