Federal Officials Deny ICE Raids at V.I. Schools

Amid unconfirmed reports of federal immigration agents visiting public schools in the territory, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) has stated that no such enforcement actions have yet taken place.

The statement comes as Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. issued a directive clarifying that local government employees, including school officials and law enforcement, are not required to assist federal immigration authorities unless legally mandated.

Responding to questions from the Source Tuesday about visits, particularly to public schools on St. Croix, Sandra Colón, Public Affairs Officer for HSI in Puerto Rico, said, “No immigration enforcement actions have been done in schools in the U.S. Virgin Islands.” However, she encouraged individuals with defined immigration status to carry documentation in case they are approached by federal authorities, emphasizing that under Title 8 of U.S. law, individuals who cross the border illegally may face legal consequences, including deportation, prosecution, and a five-year reentry ban.