The Trump administration is expanding immigration enforcement by assigning IRS criminal investigators to assist at the U.S.-Mexico border. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem sent a formal request to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, asking that agents be authorized to take part in immigration-related investigations.
IRS criminal investigators, trained in financial crimes, have arrest powers and are permitted to carry firearms. At the border, their responsibilities will include uncovering human trafficking networks and identifying companies hiring illegal immigrants. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) also expects these agents to assist with detaining and transporting individuals arrested for immigration violations.
Trump had previously floated the idea of moving IRS agents to the border instead of focusing on tax enforcement. His administration has moved swiftly to make that a reality, redirecting federal resources toward aggressive immigration enforcement.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has made over 11,000 arrests since Trump took office for a second term. Despite this, reports suggest the president has pushed for stronger measures and faster results. Deploying IRS agents is part of an effort to increase the number of removals.
The administration has already taken several major steps, including ending the Biden-era CBP One app and lifting limits on ICE agents that had restricted their ability to conduct arrests. The additional personnel from the Treasury Department will further strengthen enforcement efforts.
The number of IRS agents to be assigned has not been confirmed, but Treasury officials are in discussions about how to support DHS’s request. More federal law enforcement resources may soon be directed toward immigration enforcement as Trump’s policies take shape.
