How to Make Sense of the Federal Forces on the Streets

Border Patrol National Guard ICE F.B.I., D.E.A., Secret Service Border Patrol National Guard F.B.I., D.E.A., Secret Service ICE

How to Make Sense of the Federal Forces on the Streets

With the Border Patrol marching through Chicago and the National Guard patrolling Memphis, the variety of federal forces deployed to support President Trump’s mass deportation campaign and anticrime efforts continues to expand.

Often, it can be difficult for the public to tell them apart, or to understand what powers each agency has. Here is a guide to how these forces are operating, including alongside local law enforcement.

Who they are

Immigration and Customs Enforcement is the primary immigration law enforcement agency in the country, and its officers wear a variety of uniforms and identifiers.

July — Stamford, Conn. Agents’ vests may indicate which part of ICE the agents work for. Agents’ vests may indicate which part of ICE the agents work for.

August — Washington, D.C.

August — Washington, D.C. Officers sometimes wear vests simply labeled “Police.” Officers sometimes wear vests simply labeled “Police.” Photos by John Moore/Getty Images (top); Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images (middle); Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images (bottom)

ICE is made up of two main branches. The officers of Enforcement and Removal Operations typically handle arrests and deportations.