Gerrard Kaonga
An altercation between an ICE agent and a protester saw the government employee claim he makes a whopping amount of money.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) scrutiny is at an all-time high following accusations that the government has been overreaching with the behavior of agents in communities across the US, as Trump continues his crackdown on immigration.
The fatal shooting of Renee Good in Minneapolis, Minnesota by an ICE officer has seen the agency face further scrutiny, with the Trump administration having defended the officer’s actions.
One video that has started to do the rounds on social media shows an agent being heckled by protesters in a tense standoff.
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The video starts with the agent scolding the protesters, saying: “I don’t care what they told you. If you guys get in my way, I will arrest you.”
The man and woman recording the agent reply that they are simply observing and will continue to do so.
The male protester can then be heard asking: “You had anger issues as a kid, were your parents present? You should be ashamed of yourself, man.”
The agent replies, saying that he loves his job and that he can’t believe he gets paid for this when he would do the role for free.
The female protester can be heard adding that she is a physician assistant and gets $200k a year, seemingly in hopes of frustrating the agents.
To this, the agent asks how long the woman went to school for before making a claim that he makes just as much money as she does.
After the woman explained that she went to school for seven years, the agent answered: “I went to high school, and I make $200k.”
People on X were both sceptical of the protesters' comments and the agent’s claim that he makes $200k a year.
Others remarked that if that is how much officers can make, they would consider joining the agency.
The ICE website does not give a specific number on salaries, but under its frequently asked questions section, it does list some of the many benefits of the roles available.
Under job benefits, it reads: “ICE offers competitive salaries and an attractive benefits package including health, dental, vision, life, long-term care insurance, retirement plan, Thrift Savings Plan (similar to a 401(k)), flexible spending account, Employee Assistance Program, personal and sick leave days and paid federal holidays.
“Other benefits may include flexible work schedules, telework, tuition reimbursement, transportation subsidies, health and wellness programs and access to fitness centers. ICE is committed to employee development and offers a variety of training and developmental opportunities.”