DHS Honors Angel Moms on Mother’s Day

Source: United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) – THIS IS OUR WHY: DHS Honors Angel Moms on Mother’s Day (published May 10, 2026)
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Overview

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) used Mother’s Day to honor families devastated by violent crimes allegedly perpetrated by illegal aliens. The agency highlighted the Victims of Immigration Crime Engagement Office (VOICE), an ICE‑run resource that assists victims and families with custody information, victim services, and case updates.

Key statistics from the VOICE Office (2025‑2026):
– 900+ calls received, representing victims or family members.
– 32% reported violent assault, 15% rape/sexual assault, 9% homicide or manslaughter.
– 62% of callers sought offender custody information.

Legal Relevance for Criminal Defense & Federal Crimes

1. Federal Criminal Jurisdiction

Crimes linked to immigration violations fall under federal jurisdiction because they involve violations of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) and other federal statutes. Defendants charged with violent offenses (e.g., homicide, assault) while unlawfully present in the U.S. may face concurrent state and federal charges.

2. Victim‑Centered Enforcement

The VOICE Office exemplifies a victim‑centered approach that can affect prosecutorial discretion. Victims’ requests for custody status updates or victim‑impact statements may influence sentencing recommendations under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines (e.g., §4H2.1 – Victim Impact).

3. Immigration Consequences of Criminal Convictions

A conviction for a qualifying felony (e.g., homicide, rape) triggers mandatory removal and deportation under INA §237(a)(2)(A). Defense attorneys must navigate:
– Collateral consequences – potential removal, loss of future immigration relief, and family separation.
– Potential relief – asylum, cancellation of removal, or withholding of removal, where applicable.

4. Defense Strategies

• Challenging jurisdiction – arguing the crime should be prosecuted solely at the state level.
• Plea negotiations – mitigating immigration fallout by seeking lesser‑offense pleas.
• Sentencing mitigation – leveraging victim‑centered programs to demonstrate remorse and cooperation.

The Role of VOICE in Litigation

Attorneys representing victims can use VOICE data to:
– Obtain official custody information for impact statements.
– Request victim‑notification services for timely updates.
– Coordinate with ICE for protective measures for witnesses.

Conversely, defense counsel may request protective orders to limit victim‑impact evidence that could unduly prejudice a jury.

Why This Matters to MB Law’s Clients

• Criminal Defense: Clients facing federal charges tied to immigration status need counsel that understands both criminal law and immigration consequences.
• Federal Crimes: The intersection of violent crime and immigration enforcement creates complex legal landscapes requiring coordinated defense strategies.
• Family Impact: The human stories underscore the importance of compassionate representation that balances legal defense with family considerations.

Takeaway

The DHS Mother’s Day tribute shines a light on the real‑world impact of immigration‑related violent crime. For criminal defense practitioners, it reinforces the necessity of an integrated approach that addresses federal criminal liability, immigration ramifications, and victim‑centered processes.

If you or a loved one is facing federal charges linked to immigration status, contact MB Law for a confidential consultation.

This analysis is provided for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice.