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Report File
Date Issued
Submitting OIG
Department of Homeland Security OIG
Other Participating OIGs
Department of Homeland Security OIG
Agencies Reviewed/Investigated
Department of Homeland Security
Components
United States Secret Service (USSS)
United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
Report Number
OIG-21-31
Report Description

Under 40 U.S.C. § 1315, DHS had the legal authority to designate and deploy DHS law enforcement officers from CBP, ICE and United States Secret Service to help the Federal Protective Service protect Federal facilities in Portland, Oregon. However, DHS was unprepared to effectively execute cross-component activities to protect Federal facilities when component law enforcement officers first deployed on June 4, 2020. Specifically, not all officers completed required training; had the necessary equipment; or used consistent uniforms, devices, and operational tactics when responding to the events in Portland. This occurred because DHS did not have a comprehensive strategy that addressed the potential for limited state and local law enforcement assistance, and cross-designation policies, processes, equipment, and training requirements. We made two recommendations to improve DHS’ preparedness for protecting Federal property. DHS concurred with both recommendations.

Report Type
Audit
Number of Recommendations
2
Questioned Costs
$0
Funds for Better Use
$0

Open Recommendations

This report has 1 open recommendations.
Recommendation Number Significant Recommendation Recommended Questioned Costs Recommended Funds for Better Use Additional Details
1 No $0 $0

We recommend the Secretary, in coordination with DHS components and FPS, establish and implement a plan, policy, and process toimprove preparedness for multi-component response to future incidents of civil disturbance at Federal facilities, including:A. a process for designating DHS component personnel under 40 U.S.C. §1315 and verification of required legal training completion;B. equipment and training needs and requirements; andC. consistent tactics and operational policies.

Department of Homeland Security OIG

United States