The Trump administration has introduced steep new fines targeting illegal immigrants who fail to comply with final deportation orders. Under a long-dormant 1996 law revived during Trump’s first term, individuals will now face a $998 daily fine if they remain in the U.S. after being ordered to leave. DHS officials stated the penalties could be applied retroactively for up to five years, potentially leading to fines exceeding $1 million per person. This push is framed as a last warning before more aggressive action.
To encourage compliance, DHS is promoting the CBP Home app as a means for voluntary self-deportation. Flyers distributed by the agency list both “benefits” and “consequences,” highlighting that those who self-deport may retain earnings and remain eligible for future legal immigration. In some cases, even subsidized flights are available. But failure to comply could result in jail time, property seizure, and long-term bans from legal reentry.
A particularly high-profile enforcement move occurred in Phoenix, Arizona, where DHS Secretary Kristi Noem led a large-scale raid. Early Tuesday morning, she joined over 100 federal agents in arresting three illegal immigrants linked to weapons and drug offenses, as well as money laundering. Noem, in full tactical gear, personally oversaw the operation and even physically dodged a suspect’s kick during the arrest.
Noem was accompanied by former Trump campaign manager Corey Lewandowski, who introduced himself as “chief of staff” but was later clarified to be an official DHS adviser. The operation was a joint effort among ICE, Homeland Security Investigations, the FBI, and the DEA, showcasing a coordinated federal approach.
Speaking to media afterward, Noem vowed to intensify enforcement nationwide. She declared that cooperation between agencies is being “multiplied across the country,” and that those who enter the U.S. illegally and commit crimes will be swiftly detained and removed. “We’ll be sweeping them up faster than we ever have before,” she said, underscoring the administration’s aggressive posture.
