DeGette Demands Answers as Federal Agents Target Immigrant Children’s Legal Advocates

DENVER, CO - Today, Congresswoman Diana DeGette (CO-01) released the following statement after federal agents from ICE's Homeland Security Investigations and Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Inspector General attempted to access the offices and client records of nonprofits providing legal services to vulnerable, unaccompanied immigrant children:

"Federal agents showed up unannounced at children's legal aid organizations this week with no warrant and one clear purpose: intimidation.

"It is no coincidence this happened the same week that Trump and his GOP allies handed ICE and CBP an additional $70 billion payout. These nonprofit organizations help kids prepare for court, stay safe from trafficking, and navigate a system designed for adults. They are not threats. They are a lifeline, and their young clients are often under the direct care of HHS's Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR).

"ORR has the responsibility for the care and placement of unaccompanied children in federal custody. Secretary Kennedy has a lot to answer for, and as the Ranking Member of the Health Subcommittee, I want answers immediately."

Background:

Earlier this week, prior to today's reporting, Ranking Member DeGette sent a letter to Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Brett Guthrie and Health Subcommittee Chair Morgan Griffith requesting a hearing with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., Assistant Secretary for Administration for Children and Families Alex J. Adams and ORR Acting Director Angie Salazar.

HHS is statutorily required to provide services and care for these children under the Unaccompanied Children Program. However, reports show that ORR has taken actions over the past 17 months that jeopardize the well-being of unaccompanied children and undermine the program, including allegations of extended detention periods of 200+ days and increased cooperation with immigration enforcement agencies that harm placement and sponsor vetting.

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