Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, has become a big player in the Trump administration’s push to tighten immigration controls. But what exactly does the agency do, and how are its goals evolving?

ICE was formed in 2003 as part of a broader effort to strengthen national security after the 9/11 attacks. It’s part of the Department of Homeland Security and handles immigration enforcement, replacing the old Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS). With over 20,000 employees and a budget of around $9 billion, ICE operates through four main divisions: Homeland Security Investigations, Enforcement and Removal Operations, the Office of the Principal Legal Advisor, and Management and Administration.

Under the current administration, ICE’s focus has shifted significantly. While the agency has always prioritized criminals, the definition of “criminal” is now broader. White House officials have stated that all undocumented immigrants are considered criminals, meaning anyone caught during enforcement actions could face arrest—even if they weren’t the primary target.

Another big change? ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations division, traditionally tasked with fighting crimes like human trafficking and child pornography, now has immigration enforcement as its main mission. The administration has also lifted restrictions on conducting arrests in sensitive areas like schools and churches, making enforcement efforts more far-reaching.

The agency is also ramping up its public presence, regularly sharing arrest details on social media. With a goal of at least 75 arrests per day per field office, ICE has already made over 5,500 arrests since late January—averaging nearly 800 daily.

Beyond its own operations, ICE is working more closely with state and local law enforcement. The administration is even exploring expanding the military’s role, including using military bases to process migrants.

With these shifts, ICE is becoming a more visible and aggressive force in the administration’s immigration strategy. Whether you agree or disagree with the changes, one thing’s clear: ICE’s role is more prominent than ever.