Eagle County, Colorado — Federal immigration officials say they are investigating reports that Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents left ace of spades playing cards on vehicles belonging to immigrants detained during enforcement actions in Eagle County earlier this month.
The incident was first reported by Alex Sanchez of Voces Unidas, an immigrant advocacy organization based in Colorado’s mountain region. Sanchez said nine Latino community members were detained by ICE agents during operations in the week of Jan. 18, and family members later discovered playing cards left inside the vehicles. The cards reportedly listed the “Denver Field Office” and included contact information for the GEO immigration detention facility in Aurora.
Advocates argue the ace of spades carries a long history as a symbol of intimidation, including use by white supremacist groups, and say its placement amounted to deliberate harassment. Sanchez described the act as an abuse of power rooted in racial intimidation, accusing agents of targeting Latino workers and leaving behind what he characterized as a threatening symbol.
The Department of Homeland Security responded by condemning the alleged conduct and emphasizing that it was not authorized. A DHS spokesperson said supervisors acted quickly once the matter was raised and confirmed the ICE Office of Professional Responsibility has opened a formal investigation.
“Under President Trump and Secretary Noem, ICE is held to the highest professional standard,” the spokesperson said, adding that the agency would review the actions thoroughly.
Officials have not identified the agents involved or announced disciplinary action, pending the outcome of the investigation.
Sources:
Discover more from News Facts Network
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
