An NPR investigation revealed that the Justice Department has withheld and removed dozens of pages from the Epstein files related to allegations against President Trump, including FBI interview notes and victim statements. Some of these documents, which are subject to legal mandates for public release, remain inaccessible despite efforts to publish them, raising concerns about transparency. The files also contain allegations from women who claim Epstein and Maxwell exploited them as minors, with some references to Trump's interactions with Epstein and allegations involving Trump being partially redacted or missing. The Justice Department defended its actions, stating the redactions were made to protect victims' privacy, but critics argue that transparency has been compromised.
President Trump hosted families of crime victims at the White House during a remembrance ceremony honoring those who lost loved ones to crimes committed by illegal immigrants and foreign criminal organizations. He signed a proclamation declaring February 22 as "Angel Family Day" to honor these victims and their families, which included speeches from relatives such as Allyson Phillips and Marie Vega.
Kristi Noem falsely claimed that ICE agents detained a cannibal who started to eat himself on a deportation flight, a story she repeatedly cited to justify immigration enforcement. Multiple officials from her department confirmed there is no record of such an incident, and sources criticized the story as fabricated and unsubstantiated. The DHS attributed the story to an air marshal, but law enforcement officials expressed frustration over the falsehood.
A plane carrying ICE detainees landed unexpectedly at Portsmouth International Airport during a nor'easter and remained on the tarmac for over 12 hours due to severe weather and wind conditions, which prevented it from reaching the terminal or being towed initially. The flight, originating from Texas, was only informed of the airport's operations 15 minutes before landing, and the final destination remains unknown. Airport officials noted that the inbound decision was made by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and the airport was not notified of the flight's arrival in advance.
Maryland has sued the Trump administration to stop the construction of an ICE detention facility in the state, alleging violations of federal environmental laws due to the lack of an environmental review and public input. The lawsuit contends that the government purchased a warehouse for $102.4 million outside Williamsport to convert into a detention center as part of a broader immigration crackdown. Maryland authorities warn that the project could negatively impact the state's environmental, economic, and public health interests and are seeking a court order to halt further construction. The DHS defended the project as necessary for alternative detention facilities to support immigration enforcement.
The Trump administration halted disaster aid to states for long-term rebuilding projects during the second week of a partial government shutdown, focusing resources on emergency operations. This decision was made amid a shutdown that was largely influenced by disagreements over immigration policies, including issues related to ICE.
A former ICE attorney testified before Congress that the agency's training program teaches cadets to violate the Constitution, citing secret directives to enter homes without warrants and a dismantling of critical training hours, including those on constitutional rights and use of force. Homeland Security officials defended the training revisions, asserting that cadets still receive comprehensive instruction and ongoing on-the-job training. The testimony comes amid a record hiring surge funded by significant additional appropriations aimed at expanding deportation efforts.
After declining to observe a statewide moment of silence following the killing of Renee Good, Eden Prairie Schools focused on community service projects, cultural celebrations, and expanded access to their Eagle Nation Stations, a free store for students and families in need. The district organized various activities, including multicultural events and elementary service projects such as writing thank-you cards and creating care packages, aimed at fostering inclusion, kindness, and community support.
A flight operated by OMNI Air International carrying approximately 100 ICE detainees was delayed on the tarmac at Portsmouth International Airport during a blizzard, receiving only 15 minutes' notice before landing. The plane remained stranded and the detainees were inside the terminal after being on the ground for around 12-13 hours, with airport officials stating they were not informed of the flight's arrival in advance. Critics and local officials criticized the decision to land during severe weather, questioning the safety and communication practices involved.
The Denver City Council has unanimously approved an ordinance that would ban all law enforcement officers, including ICE agents, from wearing masks during detentions or arrests and require visible identification. The measure aims to restrict immigration enforcement and increase transparency, with final approval expected after Mayor Mike Johnston’s support. The ordinance includes exemptions for undercover operations, SWAT, and religious attire and could face legal challenges similar to those in California.
Romulus city leaders unanimously passed a resolution opposing an ICE detention facility plan in the city, citing concerns about its impact on the community. The decision followed protests and clashes outside the city hall, where residents voiced opposition to the plan, which involves converting a vacant building into a detention center. Although ICE has stated the facility would create jobs and contribute to the economy, local officials and residents expressed opposition, with Mayor Robert McCraight indicating the city will not issue necessary permits unless required by a federal judge.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine criticized President Donald Trump's plan to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitian immigrants, stating it is "wrong" and highlighting the positive economic impact of Haitian workers in Ohio, particularly in Springfield. He argued that these immigrants have helped revitalize local communities and fill labor shortages, and warned that ending TPS could lead to unemployment and economic setbacks. DeWine also noted that many Haitians in Ohio support the state's economic recovery and integration efforts.
