In a recent appearance on “Fox & Friends”, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem revealed a harrowing reality: certain law enforcement officers are now under targeted threats from criminal entities such as cartels, terrorist groups, and gangs.
Responding to this escalating danger, the Department of Homeland Security has implemented heightened protective measures for these officers, who are being actively hunted.
“We have intelligence suggesting that these groups are becoming more sophisticated and organized. Plans are being made to execute ambushes, and they aim to harm our officers,” Noem stated with palpable concern.
“There are specific officers and agents who have bounties on their heads, ranging from $2,000 for kidnapping to a frightening $10,000 for killing them. Their photos have been circulated within criminal networks, marking a dramatically perilous and unprecedented scenario,” Noem emphasized.
“To combat these threats, we’ve established protective details for at-risk individuals and altered some operational strategies to ensure the safety of our officers,” she continued.
Moreover, Noem asserted that the issue transcends mere protests against the law or freedom of speech. “This is an active call to violence where groups openly state that they will pay to have our law enforcement officials killed,” she explained.
Watch:
Criminal gangs, cartels, and known terrorist organizations have placed bounties on the heads of several of our law enforcement officers.
This is not merely about free speech; it’s a fundamental clash between the rule of law and anarchy.
We will prevail. pic.twitter.com/QCVHKt0nfy
— Secretary Kristi Noem (@Sec_Noem) October 5, 2025
Noem further reported that ICE and Border Patrol officers experience challenges as mundane as using restrooms or finding appropriate places to have lunch—challenges that highlight the discrimination faced by these professionals.
Despite the adversity, Noem noted that these officers remain passionate about their work. They draw motivation from everyday Americans who express gratitude for their service in maintaining national security.
“They’re compelled to navigate challenging situations just to find a restroom or a place to quickly eat, facing undue discrimination in the process,” Noem pointed out. “Yet, what truly inspires is their dedication; they love their jobs and are enthusiastic about serving our country,” she added proudly.
“They notice people who go out of their way to thank them,” she remarked, illustrating the bond between the officers and the public.
Watch:
“They’re eager… to serve our country.” @Sec_Noem commends ICE officers for their unwavering commitment amid violence and discrimination sparked by political rhetoric. pic.twitter.com/Kdoj3sXrMl
— FOX & Friends (@foxandfriends) October 5, 2025