WASHINGTON — Documents from whistleblowers detail cuts to training for new immigration officers implemented by the Trump administration. These cuts included the elimination of practical exams focused on skills like pistol shooting and handling criminal encounters, as well as reductions in training time.
Concerns Raised by Democrats and Whistleblowers
The documents were provided to Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) by whistleblowers within the Department of Homeland Security and publicly released prior to a forum with congressional Democrats examining tactics used by federal agents. One whistleblower, Ryan Schwank, an attorney and former instructor at the ICE Academy, resigned on February 13 and is scheduled to testify at the forum.
Schwank has described the current training program as “deficient, defective and broken,” warning that inadequate training could lead to unlawful arrests and violations of constitutional rights. He and another whistleblower previously disclosed a policy allowing agents to enter homes without a warrant.
Conflicting Accounts of Training Reductions
According to a 90-page memorandum from the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations, current ICE recruits receive nearly 250 fewer hours of training compared to previous cohorts. This contradicts earlier testimony from acting ICE Director Todd Lyons, who stated that while training days were reduced from 75 to 42, the schedule was adjusted to six 12-hour days per week.
Lauren Bis, deputy assistant public affairs secretary at DHS, stated that no training hours have been cut and that officers receive extensive training in firearms, de-escalation tactics, and constitutional rights. DHS similarly maintains that training has been streamlined to eliminate redundancy and incorporate technological advancements.
The training reductions are occurring as ICE plans to onboard over 4,000 new Enforcement and Removal Operations officers this fiscal year, with 803 already graduated as of January 29, 2026, and a projection of 3,204 more graduates by the end of September. DHS stated it is prepared to train 12,000 new hires this year, noting that many are experienced law enforcement officers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific practical exams were eliminated?
Eliminated exams include “Judgment pistol shooting,” “Criminal encounters,” and “Determine removability.”
What did Senator Blumenthal say about the whistleblowers?
Senator Blumenthal encouraged more whistleblowers to come forward, stating that the revelations about training cuts and the home entry policy came about given that of “brave Americans” speaking out.
What courses were reportedly cut from the training program?
Courses reportedly cut include use of force simulation training, U.S. Government structure, criminal vs. Removal proceedings, and use of force.
As more information emerges from the upcoming forum and potential further disclosures, it remains to be seen what impact these training changes will have on the conduct of ICE officers and the rights of those they encounter.
