As the steady influx of illegal migrants continues at the U.S.-Mexico border, concerns are growing about crimes committed by some of these individuals, including thefts, assaults, and other serious offenses. Critics argue that the Biden administration’s border policies have contributed to these issues by allowing insufficient vetting of migrants.

Reports indicate a significant increase in criminal activity among illegal migrants. In Chicago, for example, arrests of Venezuelan migrants reportedly surged by over 11,000% between 2021 and late 2023. The crimes range from thefts and assaults to more severe incidents, prompting local authorities to take action.

According to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), in fiscal year 2023, ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) arrested 73,822 noncitizens with criminal histories, resulting in 290,178 associated charges and convictions. These included 33,209 assaults, 4,390 sex and sexual assaults, 7,520 weapons offenses, 1,713 charges or convictions for homicide, and 1,655 kidnapping offenses. These figures highlight the impact of crimes committed by individuals who entered the country illegally.

In response to the rising crime rates, several states and cities have implemented measures to address the issue. For instance, New York City has created a dedicated task force to combat pickpocketing, while other areas focus on preventing more serious crimes.

The drastic increase in criminal activity has fueled a debate about the need for stricter immigration controls. Advocates for tighter policies argue that more thorough vetting and enforcement are necessary to ensure public safety and protect communities.

The ongoing debate emphasizes the importance of finding balanced and effective immigration policies that safeguard both the rights of migrants and the security of the public. As discussions continue, it remains crucial to address these complex issues with fairness and humanity.