A pair of fatal ICE shootings in less than a week, one in Houston and then in Biddeford, Maine, prompted congressional challenger Claire Reynolds to call on U.S. Rep. August Pfluger to convene an oversight hearing immediately as chair of the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence.
“The families deserve answers, and so does the public,” Reynolds said in a press release, “Congressman Pfluger has repeatedly emphasized the importance of congressional oversight over our nation’s security agencies. Yet after two fatal ICE shootings in less than a week – including the death of a Texas resident – Congress has remained silent. That’s unacceptable.”
Reynolds emphasized Congress’ responsibility to oversee federal agencies – especially when the government uses deadly force against American residents.
“ICE is funded by American taxpayers. With that funding comes accountability,” Reynolds said. “When a taxpayer-funded agency is involved in the death of a Texas resident, our Congressional representatives shouldn’t look the other way. Oversight isn’t optional; it’s part of the job.”
Reynolds called on Pfluger to demand ICE leadership testify under oath regarding the Houston shooting, the circumstances surrounding the fatal incident in Maine.
“Texans expect their representatives to stand up for them – not stay silent. It’s time for Chairman Pfluger to use the authority of his office and give this family, and the public, the answers they deserve.”
According to the Texas Tribune, 14 people have died in ICE/DHS custody in Texas so far this year, along with the recent murder in Houston, the number has climbed to 16 ICE/DHS related deaths in the state. Read more about that report here.
