ICE whistleblower alleged agency was shortcutting vetting process for new hires

An ICE whistleblower has alleged that the agency was significantly lowering its vetting standards for new hires, according to a complaint filed with the Department of Homeland Security's Office of Inspector General. The whistleblower, who previously served as the unit chief for ICE's Office of Professional Responsibility, claims that the agency was issuing final job offers before any preliminary vetting by the personnel security division.

They also allege that applicants were granted favorable preliminary suitability determinations without undergoing necessary fingerprinting, identity verification, or credit checks. The whistleblower contends that the systematic failures constitute a direct violation of federal law, DHS directives, and national security policies, placing DHS at grave risk of insider threats, infiltration, and reputational harm.

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