The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has publicly refuted claims made by numerous Democrats and media outlets regarding a recent ICE officer-involved shooting in Austin, Texas, asserting they were “spreading lies” and pushing “false narratives.” The incident involved Wilber Rafael Garces Perez, a 28-year-old Venezuelan national whom DHS states is an illegal immigrant with a final order of removal, who was shot by an ICE agent during a chase. Despite a letter signed by over 100 Democratic members of Congress demanding Perez’s release and claims from politicians like Rep. Joaquin Castro (D-Texas) that Perez was not receiving adequate care and had a bullet lodged in his body, DHS countered these assertions. The agency stated that the claim of refusing bullet removal was “false,” clarifying that ICE is not authorized to direct medical procedures at a hospital. DHS also disputed reports of denied pain medication and sleeping on the floor, asserting Perez received “around the clock” medical care, including pain medication, and slept in a bed at the detention facility after his release from the hospital. Furthermore, DHS corrected statements from Perez’s lawyer regarding his legal entry and work permit status, confirming he entered the country illegally and lacked protective status or a valid work permit. Former acting ICE Director Jonathan Fahey suggested that the political backlash against ICE’s enforcement actions is a deliberate strategy by Democrats aiming for an open border and mass amnesty, arguing that their calls for no enforcement, rather than responsible enforcement, reveal this agenda. DHS firmly stated that ICE will not be slowing down or leaving Austin, emphasizing their commitment to enforcing laws passed by Congress without selectivity.
Adapted from: Latest Political News on Fox News
