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President-elect Donald Trump has chosen Caleb Vitello, a longtime veteran of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency, to lead ICE in executing mass deportation policies. Despite most of Trump’s Cabinet picks being outsiders, Vitello’s decades of experience within the agency make him well-suited for the job. As an “acting” director, Vitello can start implementing aggressive removal efforts without waiting for Senate confirmation.
Vitello’s expertise in hunting fugitives and dealing with the complexities of the immigration system will be crucial, as there are over 400,000 immigrants with criminal convictions on ICE’s docket. Former ICE chief of staff, Jason Houser, describes Vitello as a thoughtful leader who understands the challenges of the broken immigration system.
ICE insiders are relieved that Vitello, known for being even-keeled and non-controversial, was chosen to lead. With 20,000 agents in charge of the removal process, including searching for immigrants, detaining them, and organizing deportation flights, Vitello’s experience will be instrumental. He has also implemented a body-worn camera policy and served as a use-of-force instructor, emphasizing the importance of appropriate conduct for agents.
In a use-of-force case involving an ICE agent pushing a handcuffed detainee, Vitello testified that such behavior was not in line with agency training. His testimony highlights his commitment to ethical and lawful conduct within the agency. Overall, Vitello’s selection as ICE director reflects Trump’s focus on experienced insiders for key immigration positions.
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