In a significant shift in federal resource allocation, IRS criminal investigators are being sent to the U.S.-Mexico border to assist in immigration enforcement. The move comes as part of President Donald Trump’s expanded effort to accelerate deportations and dismantle illegal employment and trafficking networks.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem sent a formal request to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, asking for IRS agents to be deputized for immigration-related duties. The agents, typically focused on financial crimes such as fraud and money laundering, will now work on identifying businesses hiring illegal immigrants and tracking illicit financial operations linked to human trafficking.
The IRS has around 2,100 criminal investigators authorized to carry firearms and make arrests. Under the new directive, they will also assist in detaining and transporting individuals caught entering the country illegally.
Since taking office for his second term, Trump has pushed for rapid immigration enforcement. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has reported 11,000 arrests in just 18 days, but sources indicate Trump wants an even greater focus on removing illegal immigrants.
The administration has already shut down the Biden-era CBP One app and reversed limitations on ICE, allowing for broader detention and deportation powers. Bringing in additional law enforcement personnel from the Treasury Department is another step in expanding border security efforts.
While the number of IRS agents being reassigned has yet to be finalized, discussions within DHS and the Treasury Department are ongoing. More federal law enforcement personnel may soon be redirected as the administration continues strengthening border enforcement.
