https://pjnewsletter.com/ice-illegal-immigration-biden/
ICE Terminates 2 Major Programs
In a revealing development that underscores the fiscal irresponsibility of current policies, ICE has now terminated two controversial programs that provided extensive social services to illegal immigrants. In doing so, ICE cited “immense cost” and a stark lack of effectiveness. The decision came in response to a demanding inquiry from Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) and 15 other members of Congress who insisted on accountability for these taxpayer-funded initiatives.
The first casualty was the Wraparound Stabilization Service (WSS), which launched in February of 2020. This program partnered with NGOs to provide “psychosocial and behavioral health support” to illegal immigrants and their families. ICE’s own assessment delivered a scathing verdict: the program showed only a 2% higher compliance rate compared to those who didn’t receive services, while accumulating substantial costs to American taxpayers.
“ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations notes the challenge with the WSS was its immense cost with little improvement,” the agency stated in its response letter. “As a result, ERO determined WSS was not cost-effective enough to continue paying for these services when they did not benefit ICE or help the agency further its mission.”
Second Program Scrapped By ICE
The second terminated program, the Young Adult Case Management (YACMP) initiative, diverted law enforcement resources to provide legal services and social program referrals to 18- and 19-year-old illegal immigrants across 16 cities. ICE concluded that this program, launched in 2023, “does not align with ERO’s mission or priorities.”
Lora Ries, director of the Heritage Foundation’s Border Security and Immigration Center, praised the terminations while calling for broader reform.
“ICE is a law enforcement agency, not a charity,” Ries said. “The billions of dollars DHS has wasted to bring millions of illegal aliens into the country and provide them excessive amenities should be redirected to getting every illegal alien safely back to their home country.”
The agency’s enforcement data reveals disturbing statistics about those enrolled in these programs. In fiscal year 2024 alone, participants faced 3,913 criminal charges and 688 convictions, including two homicides, four kidnappings, ten sex offenses, and 65 assault convictions. Despite these serious public safety concerns, the average participant remained in the program for 511.9 days at taxpayer expense.