Noem Slams ICEBlock App as ‘Obstruction’ Amid Rising Agent Assaults

Former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has publicly condemned the ICEBlock application, labeling it as a potential “obstruction of justice.” The app, designed to crowdsource and share the locations of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, has sparked controversy amid escalating tensions surrounding U.S. immigration enforcement.

Noem voiced her concerns on X, stating that the app could endanger ICE officers. Her comments follow reports of a significant surge in assaults against ICE personnel.

“This sure looks like obstruction of justice,” she wrote. “Our brave ICE law enforcement face a 500% increase in assaults against them. If you obstruct or assault our law enforcement, we will hunt you down and you will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

According to its creator, Joshua Aaron, ICEBlock aims to help individuals avoid contact with ICE agents. However, critics argue that the app could be misused to target law enforcement officers.

In a statement to CNN, Aaron clarified that the app was designed to help people “avoid them altogether if they want” and not to target officers.

App Features and Functionality

ICEBlock, launched in April, allows users to anonymously report ICE agent sightings. Users can mark locations on a map and add details such as vehicle descriptions or uniform types. The app then alerts other users within a five-mile radius. According to Aaron, the app prioritizes user privacy, collecting minimal data to ensure anonymity.

“This is 100 percent anonymous and free for anybody who wants to use it,” he said.

Controversy and Reactions

The emergence of ICEBlock has drawn strong reactions from government officials. Some have accused media outlets of promoting the app and, in effect, endangering law enforcement.

Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons issued a statement criticizing the app, stating:

“Advertising an app that basically paints a target on federal law enforcement officers’ backs is sickening. My officers and agents are already facing a 500% increase in assaults, and going on live television to announce an app that lets anyone zero in on their locations is like inviting violence against them with a national megaphone.”

Stephen Miller, a former White House deputy chief of staff, also condemned the app, accusing media outlets of supporting those who undermine ICE operations.

Legal Implications and Future Actions

Secretary Noem’s strong stance suggests that the administration may consider legal action against those who use or promote the app to obstruct law enforcement activities. The debate surrounding ICEBlock highlights the ongoing tension between immigration enforcement and privacy concerns in the United States.