Trump Administration Removes Acting ICE Director Caleb Vitello Amid Tension

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Trump administration has removed Caleb Vitello from his role as acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), according to multiple sources within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The decision was confirmed by two former senior DHS officials and one current senior official.

Vitello’s removal comes amidst rising tensions within the agency. Border czar Tom Homan, who has expressed frustration over media leaks from ICE that have reportedly hindered arrest operations, is believed to have played a significant role in the decision. An anonymous senior DHS official indicated that Vitello will remain involved with ICE, overseeing enforcement activities such as arrests and field operations.

The senior official also confirmed that an announcement regarding Vitello’s successor as acting ICE director is expected soon, though no details were disclosed about potential candidates.

Julia Ainsley, a homeland security correspondent for NBC News, has been monitoring developments within the DHS and noted that organizational changes frequently occur under new administration directives. “Leadership shifts are common as departments realign with their priorities,” Ainsley stated in a recent report.

As the situation evolves, ICE’s ongoing challenges regarding operational efficacy and internal communication remain a focus for agency leaders. The impact of leadership changes on enforcement strategies could affect ongoing and future operations.