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Tag: Agents

  • Maximize Your Global IT Services with Zion’s 24x7x365 Support for Intelligent Agents: Reduce Costs, Boost Performance, and Drive Success

    Maximize Your Global IT Services with Zion’s 24x7x365 Support for Intelligent Agents: Reduce Costs, Boost Performance, and Drive Success


    Welcome to Zion, the fastest-growing Global IT Services Company! At Zion, we specialize in providing 24x7x365 global support for datacenter equipment such as servers, storages, networking, and more. With 26 years of experience, we have built a reputation for reliability and efficiency.

    Our AI-powered systems and round-the-clock support ensure that incidents are resolved quickly and effectively, reducing downtime and boosting performance. With Zion, you can maximize your global IT services, reduce costs, and drive success.

    In addition to our IT services, Zion is committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility. We recycle IT equipment according to the best practices for the environment and offer a large inventory of IT equipment for sale. We also provide IT equipment rental services.

    Whether you need assistance with core infrastructure, technology and hardware, operations and management, sustainability, services and business, security and compliance, or want to stay ahead of emerging trends in the industry, Zion has you covered.

    Don’t miss out on the opportunity to sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest updates on our services and trending news in the Google search. Let Zion be your partner in achieving your IT goals.

    Tags: IT services, global support, datacenter equipment, AI-powered systems, sustainability, IT equipment recycling, IT equipment rental, core infrastructure, technology, operations, sustainability, security, compliance, emerging trends.


    #Maximize #Global #Services #Zions #24x7x365 #Support #Intelligent #Agents #Reduce #Costs #Boost #Performance #Drive #Success, intelligent agents

  • Best Practices for Training Help Desk Agents to Provide Exceptional Customer Support

    Best Practices for Training Help Desk Agents to Provide Exceptional Customer Support


    Providing exceptional customer support is crucial for any business, especially when it comes to help desk agents who are on the front lines of customer interactions. Training help desk agents to provide exceptional customer support is essential in ensuring customer satisfaction and loyalty. Here are some best practices for training help desk agents to provide exceptional customer support:

    1. Establish clear guidelines and protocols: Help desk agents should be trained on the company’s policies, procedures, and best practices for handling customer inquiries and issues. This includes guidelines on how to greet customers, how to escalate issues, and how to follow up with customers after resolving their concerns.

    2. Develop strong communication skills: Help desk agents should be trained on how to communicate effectively with customers. This includes active listening, asking probing questions to understand the customer’s issue, and responding in a clear and concise manner. Agents should also be trained on how to use positive language and tone to create a positive customer experience.

    3. Provide technical training: Help desk agents should be trained on the technical aspects of the products or services they support. This includes understanding the features and functionalities of the products, troubleshooting common issues, and providing step-by-step instructions to customers. Agents should also be trained on how to use the help desk software and tools effectively.

    4. Empower agents to make decisions: Help desk agents should be empowered to make decisions and take ownership of customer issues. This includes giving agents the authority to resolve customer concerns on their own without having to escalate to a manager. Empowering agents to make decisions can help improve customer satisfaction and reduce resolution times.

    5. Provide ongoing training and support: Training should be an ongoing process for help desk agents. This includes regular training sessions to update agents on new products or features, refresh their skills, and address any gaps in their knowledge. Managers should also provide ongoing support and feedback to help desk agents to help them improve their performance.

    6. Encourage a customer-centric mindset: Help desk agents should be trained to prioritize the needs and concerns of customers above all else. This includes putting themselves in the customer’s shoes, showing empathy and understanding, and going above and beyond to provide exceptional customer support. Agents should be trained to treat every customer interaction as an opportunity to build rapport and loyalty.

    By following these best practices for training help desk agents, businesses can ensure that their agents are well-equipped to provide exceptional customer support. Investing in training for help desk agents is essential in creating a positive customer experience and building customer loyalty.

  • FBI agents asked to answer survey on Jan. 6 case involvement


    The FBI Agents Association (FBIAA) sent a message to its members on Sunday about the 12-question survey sent to some of its employees asking about their work related to investigating the violent attack on the Capitol on January 6, 2021.

    “We understand that this feels like agents and employees are being targeted, despite repeated assurances that ‘all FBI employees will be protected against political retribution,’” the message states. “Employees carrying out their duties to investigate allegations of criminal activity with integrity and within the rule of law should never be treated as those who have engaged in actual misconduct.”

    The 12-question survey asks FBI employees to choose a response or responses that apply to each question by selecting from a menu of options provided in the survey.

    One question in the survey permits an “other” response and provides a text box in which to respond. FBIAA is recommending responding agents include specific language in this text box indicating they are “required to respond” to the survey, they are responding to the best of their ability based on current knowledge “without being afforded appropriate time to research” answers or speak with counsel or representation and that they have not been advised of their rights in this matter.

    Additionally, FBIAA recommends employees include language indicating that, “To the best of my ability and belief, I have performed my duties in accordance with the DIOG, federal statutes and the Constitution of the United States and the matters I worked on were properly predicated under DIOG and were opened and investigated at the direction of the Department of Justice.”

    The FBIAA on its website describes its mission as advancing and safeguarding “the careers, economic interests, conditions of employment and welfare of Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Agents and retired FBI Agents.”

    The seal of Federal Bureau of Investigation is seen on J. Edgar Hoover FBI Building in Washington July 12th, 2024.

    Beata Zawrzel/NurPhoto via Getty Images

    The FBIAA message also notes that today marks the four-year anniversary of the line of duty deaths of two FBI Special Agents who were shot and killed while executing a search warrant in Florida.

    “Adding insult to injury is that four years ago today, we lost two incredible FBI agents, Daniel Alfin and Laura Schwartzenberger, doing the meaningful, yet dangerous work that our members do every day. We remember how dark and tragic that day was. Today, we continue to remember and honor them, their families, friends, and colleagues. While it is nearly impossible to block out the noise right now, we are reminded that like Dan and Laura, we do the jobs we do because it is a calling to protect and serve – and that we believe in protecting the American people and upholding the Constitution of the United States,” the message states.

    The message closes with a sober, but measured tone about the uncertainty surrounding what these recent actions by the Trump Justice Department may mean for employees, stating, “We continue to hear rumors of dismissals/security revocations, or individuals who have been told to expect dismissals on Monday. Again, we have no confirmation of any such events. Please be cautious in sharing and spreading what could be misinformation. We do not need any more stress on those potentially impacted.”

    On Friday, several sources told ABC New that the Trump administration is compiling a list of agents and other FBI officials from around the country who they believe should be fired or forced to resign in the coming days.

    Firings were expected to begin as early as Friday, but a list was expected to be finalized on Monday, sources said.

    The list of those who could be fired includes the heads of dozens of field offices across the country and could include scores of agents in the FBI’s Washington, D.C., Field Office alone, sources said.

    An FBI spokesperson said in a statement to ABC News: “The FBI is declining to comment on any questions regarding FBI personnel matters. We have also instructed the public affairs officers in our field offices to decline to comment as well.”



    The FBI is seeking feedback from its agents who were involved in the investigation of the January 6th Capitol riot. The agency recently sent out a survey to agents asking for their input on their level of involvement in the case, the resources and support they received, and any challenges they faced during the investigation.

    This survey is part of the FBI’s effort to gather information on the handling of the high-profile case and to identify areas for improvement in future investigations. The agency is committed to ensuring that all agents are properly supported and equipped to carry out their duties effectively and efficiently.

    The FBI has not released any specific details about the survey or the responses it has received so far. However, this initiative demonstrates the agency’s dedication to learning from past experiences and continuously improving its investigative techniques.

    Stay tuned for more updates on this story as more information becomes available.

    Tags:

    FBI agents, Jan. 6 case, survey, FBI involvement, law enforcement, Capitol riot, investigation, government, national security, federal agents, law enforcement survey, FBI investigation, Capitol breach.

    #FBI #agents #asked #answer #survey #Jan #case #involvement

  • Best Practices for Training and Managing Help Desk Agents

    Best Practices for Training and Managing Help Desk Agents


    Help desk agents play a crucial role in ensuring customer satisfaction and resolving issues in a timely manner. Training and managing these agents effectively can greatly impact the overall success of a help desk team. Here are some best practices for training and managing help desk agents:

    1. Clear Communication: Effective communication is key in the help desk industry. Agents should be trained to communicate clearly and concisely with customers, ensuring that they understand the issue at hand and the steps being taken to resolve it. Managers should also communicate expectations clearly to help desk agents to avoid confusion and improve performance.

    2. Technical Training: Help desk agents should receive thorough technical training to ensure they have the knowledge and skills necessary to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues. This training should be ongoing, as technology is constantly evolving.

    3. Customer Service Training: In addition to technical training, help desk agents should also receive customer service training. Agents should be trained to handle difficult customers, remain calm under pressure, and provide excellent customer service at all times.

    4. Role-playing Exercises: Role-playing exercises can be a valuable tool in training help desk agents. By simulating real-life scenarios, agents can practice their problem-solving skills and communication techniques in a controlled environment.

    5. Regular Feedback and Coaching: Managers should provide regular feedback and coaching to help desk agents to help them improve their performance. This feedback should be constructive and specific, focusing on areas for improvement and providing guidance on how to address them.

    6. Encourage Collaboration: Encouraging collaboration among help desk agents can help improve team performance. Agents can share best practices, tips, and strategies with one another, leading to a more efficient and effective help desk team.

    7. Implement Performance Metrics: Performance metrics can help managers track the performance of help desk agents and identify areas for improvement. Metrics such as call resolution time, customer satisfaction ratings, and first call resolution rate can help managers gauge the effectiveness of their help desk team.

    8. Provide Ongoing Training: Training should be an ongoing process for help desk agents. Technology is constantly evolving, and agents need to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and developments in order to effectively support customers.

    By implementing these best practices for training and managing help desk agents, organizations can improve the performance and efficiency of their help desk teams, leading to higher customer satisfaction and improved overall success.

  • Best Practices for Training Help Desk Agents

    Best Practices for Training Help Desk Agents


    As technology continues to advance, the demand for help desk agents who can effectively troubleshoot technical issues and provide excellent customer service is on the rise. To ensure that help desk agents are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to handle any customer inquiry, it is important for organizations to implement best practices for training help desk agents. Here are some key best practices for training help desk agents:

    1. Provide comprehensive training materials: Help desk agents should be provided with thorough training materials that cover a wide range of technical issues and customer service skills. These materials should be easily accessible and regularly updated to ensure that agents are equipped with the most current information.

    2. Hands-on practice: In addition to training materials, help desk agents should also have the opportunity to practice troubleshooting technical issues in a simulated environment. This hands-on practice will help agents gain confidence in their abilities and prepare them for real-life customer interactions.

    3. Encourage collaboration: Collaboration among help desk agents can be highly beneficial, as it allows agents to share best practices and learn from one another’s experiences. Organizations should encourage collaboration through team meetings, forums, and other communication channels.

    4. Provide ongoing support: Training should not stop once help desk agents are on the job. Organizations should provide ongoing support and professional development opportunities to help desk agents so that they can continue to improve their skills and stay up-to-date on the latest technologies.

    5. Monitor performance: Organizations should regularly monitor the performance of help desk agents to identify any areas for improvement. This can be done through customer feedback, performance evaluations, and quality assurance checks.

    6. Offer incentives: Incentives can be a great way to motivate help desk agents to perform at their best. Organizations can offer rewards for exceptional performance, such as bonuses, recognition, or career advancement opportunities.

    By implementing these best practices for training help desk agents, organizations can ensure that their help desk agents are well-equipped to handle any customer inquiry and provide excellent customer service. Investing in the training and development of help desk agents is essential for organizations looking to provide a positive customer experience and build a strong reputation in the marketplace.

  • The Role of Help Desk Agents in Providing Exceptional Customer Service

    The Role of Help Desk Agents in Providing Exceptional Customer Service


    In today’s fast-paced business world, customer service is more important than ever before. With the rise of online shopping and social media, customers have more options than ever when it comes to where they spend their money. As a result, businesses must go above and beyond to provide exceptional customer service in order to stand out from the competition.

    One key aspect of providing exceptional customer service is having a team of knowledgeable and helpful help desk agents. Help desk agents are often the first point of contact for customers who have questions or concerns about a product or service. They play a crucial role in ensuring that customers have a positive experience with a company.

    Help desk agents must possess a number of key skills in order to effectively provide exceptional customer service. First and foremost, they must have a deep understanding of the products or services they are supporting. This includes knowing how the product works, what features it has, and how it can benefit the customer. Help desk agents must also be able to effectively communicate this information to customers in a clear and concise manner.

    In addition to product knowledge, help desk agents must also possess strong problem-solving skills. Customers often reach out to help desk agents when they are experiencing an issue with a product or service. In these situations, help desk agents must be able to quickly identify the problem and come up with a solution. This may involve troubleshooting technical issues, coordinating with other departments within the company, or escalating the issue to a higher level of support.

    Help desk agents must also have excellent communication skills. They must be able to listen to customers’ concerns, ask probing questions to gather more information, and provide clear and helpful responses. They must also be able to remain calm and professional, even in high-pressure situations.

    Finally, help desk agents must have a strong customer service mindset. This means being patient, empathetic, and genuinely interested in helping customers solve their problems. Help desk agents should strive to exceed customer expectations and go the extra mile to ensure that each customer interaction is a positive one.

    In conclusion, help desk agents play a crucial role in providing exceptional customer service. By possessing a deep understanding of the products or services they support, strong problem-solving skills, excellent communication skills, and a customer service mindset, help desk agents can help businesses stand out from the competition and build lasting relationships with their customers. Businesses that invest in training and supporting their help desk agents will reap the rewards of increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.

  • New Homeland Security secretary joins federal agents to tout immigrant arrests in NYC


    Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem joined federal agents Tuesday in New York City to announce the arrests of immigrants wanted on criminal charges, including a man accused of kidnapping who was seen on a viral video entering a Colorado apartment with reputed gang members.

    Noem was the latest high-ranking official from President Donald Trump’s administration to tout the president’s ramped-up immigration enforcement in a city where arrests were being made. Border czar Tom Homan and acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove were in Chicago on Sunday as federal agents made arrests there.

    “Arresting some criminal aliens this morning in NYC — thank you to the brave officers involved,” Noem posted on X. “Criminal alien with kidnapping, assault & burglary charges is now in custody — thanks to @ICE. Dirtbags like this will continue to be removed from our streets.”

    An operation in the Bronx early Tuesday snared Anderson Zambrano-Pacheco, 26, who authorities said was part of a group of men, including members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, who entered an apartment in Aurora, Colorado, last summer and were recorded on a widely viewed video.

    The charges were brought by local authorities in Colorado. It was not immediately clear what would happen next for Zambrano-Pacheco. Two other men who police said were in the video were arrested in New York in November. They are still in ICE custody.

    The incident caught President Donald Trump’s attention during the presidential campaign, and he announced a plan called “Operation Aurora” to target migrant gangs. The video led Trump to claim that the Denver suburb had been taken over by the gang, which city officials denied.

    In an arrest warrant, Aurora police said Zambrano-Pacheco was also wanted in a kidnapping in which at least 20 armed men abducted and threatened two people in late June. In addition, police said Zambrano-Pacheco was with a group of armed men before a shooting occurred shortly after the apartment incident that was caught on video.

    It was not immediately clear if he had a lawyer or if he was a member of Tren de Aragua.

    Local and federal authorities, including Aurora police and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, investigated the apartment video incident for months beginning when Joe Biden was still president.

    New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, a Democrat, said Tuesday’s arrests did not appear to be part of a “wholesale raid,” but rather an operation targeting specific people accused of crimes.

    “I want to be clear, there’s always been ICE raids in the state of New York, even in the past. This is not a new dynamic,” she said.

    Zambrano-Pacheco is the fifth person to be arrested in connection with the Aurora apartment incident. The video showed six armed men, including at least some people identified as Tren de Aragua members by federal authorities, entering the apartment shortly before a fatal shooting outside the complex.

    In Chicago, city leaders criticized the highly publicized enforcement operations that started over the weekend in the nation’s third-largest city. That included the surprising decision to allow daytime television psychologist “Dr. Phil” McGraw to livestream immigrant arrests alongside Homan.

    “This desire to popularize fear is unconscionable and abhorrent,” Mayor Brandon Johnson said Tuesday at a City Hall news conference alongside Police Superintendent Larry Snelling, city lawyers and others. “We’re talking about people’s lives.”

    Johnson defended the city’s strong sanctuary protections that bar Chicago police from cooperating with federal immigration agents. Chicago has been a so-called sanctuary city for decades and has strengthened those protections several times, including during Trump’s first term.

    ICE has offered few details about the operation in Chicago, including the number of arrests. The agency did not return a message seeking comment Tuesday.

    Snelling said Chicago police have communicated with federal agents but did not participate in the operation or cooperate. He estimated roughly 100 people were taken into custody.

    In other developments, authorities said Tuesday that none of the 41 people taken into ICE custody following a weekend raid in Colorado are likely to face drug or gun charges. The Sunday raid targeted drug trafficking by Tren de Aragua at a makeshift nightclub near Denver.

    The people who had gathered dropped their drugs and guns before agents got inside, making it hard to connect the items to specific people, according to a spokesperson for the Drug Enforcement Administration, Steffan Tubbs. The drugs found were amounts for personal use, he said.

    Back in the Bronx, no one answered the door at apartment 1A by the entrance to the building where Zambrano-Pacheco was detained. But Richard Egu, 50, who lives in a third-floor unit, said he was roused from sleep by the commotion around 5 a.m.

    Egu, a correctional officer who is originally from Nigeria and has been a naturalized citizen for more than 15 years, said he didn’t venture out to investigate and did not know the man who was arrested.

    He said he understood the need to arrest and deport those in the country illegally who commit crimes, but he also worries about the effect such enforcement will have in the community.

    “You need to give immigrants a chance. These people are already here,” he said. “Figure out the ones who are committing the crimes. Don’t just judge all immigrants as criminals.”

    ___

    Associated Press writers Colleen Slevin in Denver, Sophia Tareen and Melissa Perez Winder in Chicago, and Philip Marcelo and Anthony Izaguirre in New York contributed to this report.





    New Homeland Security Secretary Joins Federal Agents to Tout Immigrant Arrests in NYC

    In a bold move to showcase the Trump administration’s crackdown on illegal immigration, the newly appointed Secretary of Homeland Security joined federal agents in New York City to tout a recent string of immigrant arrests.

    The Secretary, along with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, highlighted the success of their recent operations in apprehending individuals who have violated immigration laws. They emphasized the importance of enforcing immigration laws to protect national security and ensure the safety of American citizens.

    The Secretary praised the dedication and hard work of the agents, stating that their efforts are crucial in upholding the rule of law and safeguarding the country’s borders. He also reiterated the administration’s commitment to cracking down on illegal immigration and removing individuals who pose a threat to public safety.

    The event drew both support and criticism, with advocates for immigrant rights condemning the arrests as inhumane and unjust. They called for a more compassionate and humane approach to immigration enforcement, arguing that families should not be torn apart and individuals should be given a fair chance to seek asylum in the United States.

    Despite the controversy surrounding the arrests, the Secretary and federal agents remained steadfast in their mission to enforce immigration laws and protect the country from potential threats. They vowed to continue their efforts to crack down on illegal immigration and ensure the safety and security of all Americans.

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    10. Immigration crackdown in NYC

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  • New Homeland Security secretary joins federal agents to tout immigrant arrests in NYC


    Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem joined federal agents Tuesday in New York City to announce the arrests of immigrants wanted on criminal charges, including a man accused of kidnapping who was seen on a viral video entering a Colorado apartment with reputed gang members.

    Noem was the latest high-ranking official from President Donald Trump’s administration to tout the president’s ramped-up immigration enforcement in a city where arrests were being made. Border czar Tom Homan and acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove were in Chicago on Sunday as federal agents made arrests there.

    “Arresting some criminal aliens this morning in NYC — thank you to the brave officers involved,” Noem posted on X. “Criminal alien with kidnapping, assault & burglary charges is now in custody — thanks to @ICE. Dirtbags like this will continue to be removed from our streets.”

    An operation in the Bronx early Tuesday snared Anderson Zambrano-Pacheco, 26, who authorities said was part of a group of men, including members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, who entered an apartment in Aurora, Colorado, last summer and were recorded on a widely viewed video.

    The charges were brought by local authorities in Colorado. It was not immediately clear what would happen next for Zambrano-Pacheco. Two other men who police said were in the video were arrested in New York in November. They are still in ICE custody.

    The incident caught President Donald Trump’s attention during the presidential campaign, and he announced a plan called “Operation Aurora” to target migrant gangs. The video led Trump to claim that the Denver suburb had been taken over by the gang, which city officials denied.

    In an arrest warrant, Aurora police said Zambrano-Pacheco was also wanted in a kidnapping in which at least 20 armed men abducted and threatened two people in late June. In addition, police said Zambrano-Pacheco was with a group of armed men before a shooting occurred shortly after the apartment incident that was caught on video.

    It was not immediately clear if he had a lawyer or if he was a member of Tren de Aragua.

    Local and federal authorities, including Aurora police and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, investigated the apartment video incident for months beginning when Joe Biden was still president.

    New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, a Democrat, said Tuesday’s arrests did not appear to be part of a “wholesale raid,” but rather an operation targeting specific people accused of crimes.

    “I want to be clear, there’s always been ICE raids in the state of New York, even in the past. This is not a new dynamic,” she said.

    Zambrano-Pacheco is the fifth person to be arrested in connection with the Aurora apartment incident. The video showed six armed men, including at least some people identified as Tren de Aragua members by federal authorities, entering the apartment shortly before a fatal shooting outside the complex.

    In Chicago, city leaders criticized the highly publicized enforcement operations that started over the weekend in the nation’s third-largest city. That included the surprising decision to allow daytime television psychologist “Dr. Phil” McGraw to livestream immigrant arrests alongside Homan.

    “This desire to popularize fear is unconscionable and abhorrent,” Mayor Brandon Johnson said Tuesday at a City Hall news conference alongside Police Superintendent Larry Snelling, city lawyers and others. “We’re talking about people’s lives.”

    Johnson defended the city’s strong sanctuary protections that bar Chicago police from cooperating with federal immigration agents. Chicago has been a so-called sanctuary city for decades and has strengthened those protections several times, including during Trump’s first term.

    ICE has offered few details about the operation in Chicago, including the number of arrests. The agency did not return a message seeking comment Tuesday.

    Snelling said Chicago police have communicated with federal agents but did not participate in the operation or cooperate. He estimated roughly 100 people were taken into custody.

    In other developments, authorities said Tuesday that none of the 41 people taken into ICE custody following a weekend raid in Colorado are likely to face drug or gun charges. The Sunday raid targeted drug trafficking by Tren de Aragua at a makeshift nightclub near Denver.

    The people who had gathered dropped their drugs and guns before agents got inside, making it hard to connect the items to specific people, according to a spokesperson for the Drug Enforcement Administration, Steffan Tubbs. The drugs found were amounts for personal use, he said.

    Back in the Bronx, no one answered the door at apartment 1A by the entrance to the building where Zambrano-Pacheco was detained. But Richard Egu, 50, who lives in a third-floor unit, said he was roused from sleep by the commotion around 5 a.m.

    Egu, a correctional officer who is originally from Nigeria and has been a naturalized citizen for more than 15 years, said he didn’t venture out to investigate and did not know the man who was arrested.

    He said he understood the need to arrest and deport those in the country illegally who commit crimes, but he also worries about the effect such enforcement will have in the community.

    “You need to give immigrants a chance. These people are already here,” he said. “Figure out the ones who are committing the crimes. Don’t just judge all immigrants as criminals.”

    ___

    Associated Press writers Colleen Slevin in Denver, Sophia Tareen and Melissa Perez Winder in Chicago, and Philip Marcelo and Anthony Izaguirre in New York contributed to this report.

    Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.



    New Homeland Security Secretary Joins Federal Agents in NYC to Tout Immigrant Arrests

    In a show of force against illegal immigration, the newly appointed Homeland Security Secretary, together with federal agents, conducted a press conference in New York City to announce a series of successful immigrant arrests.

    The Secretary highlighted the department’s commitment to enforcing immigration laws and cracking down on those who violate them. He praised the efforts of federal agents in apprehending individuals who have entered the country illegally or overstayed their visas.

    During the press conference, several immigrant arrest cases were detailed, showcasing the department’s dedication to upholding the rule of law and protecting national security. The Secretary emphasized the importance of securing the nation’s borders and enforcing immigration policies to ensure the safety of all Americans.

    The press conference served as a reminder of the administration’s tough stance on immigration and its determination to tackle the issue head-on. The Secretary expressed confidence in the work of federal agents and reassured the public that the department will continue to prioritize immigration enforcement efforts.

    Overall, the event was a strong display of the government’s commitment to maintaining law and order and upholding the integrity of the nation’s immigration system. It sent a clear message to those who seek to circumvent immigration laws that they will be held accountable for their actions.

    Tags:

    1. Homeland Security Secretary
    2. Federal Agents
    3. Immigrant Arrests
    4. NYC
    5. Immigration Enforcement
    6. Law Enforcement
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  • 5 Free agents who could reconnect with Tom Brady in Las Vegas


    After cleaning house at the beginning of the offseason, the Las Vegas Raiders finally have both their head coach and general manager in place.

    Mark Davis and his hiring committee selected the highly-touted John Spytek to be the team’s next GM and Super Bowl-winning head coach Pete Carroll to lead the franchise.

    The key cog in Davis’ hiring committee was minority owner Tom Brady, who is looking more and more like he has a strong hand in the Raiders’ football operations.

    With that notion in mind, let’s take a look at several free agents who could rejoin their former teammate in Las Vegas.

    1. Lavonte David, MLB

    While David was drafted before Spytek made it to Tampa Bay, he was integral in keeping David a part of the franchise for so long. Brady played with him for three seasons as well, and won Super Bowl LV with the linebacker.

    David is a 13-year veteran, but is still at the top of his game. He had 122 tackles last season for the Buccaneers and 5.5 sacks, which was his best mark since 2013. If the team does not resign Robert Spillane, David should be a top priority.

    2. Carlton Davis, CB

    Carlton Davis was drafted by Spytek and Co. to Tampa Bay in 2018, and played for the franchise for six seasons. He overlapped with Brady for three of those years, and was also part of that Super Bowl-winning team.

    Davis earned a nice contract with the Detroit Lions this offseason, and was having a career year until he suffered an injury late in the season. He is set to be a free agent once again and should be a top target for the Raiders as a starting cornerback opposite of Jakorian Bennett.

    3. Stephon Gilmore, CB

    Gilmore’s best years are certainly behind him, but he is not as old as many think and still put together a solid campaign for the Minnesota Vikings this year.

    The former Defensive Player of the Year played with Brady for three seasons in New England, winning a Super Bowl, and could be reunited this offseason as Gilmore is set to hit free agency once again.

    4. Kyle Trask, QB

    Trask was a second-round selection by the Buccaneers in 2021, which means that Spytek was almost certainly high on him. He also served as Brady’s backup for a few seasons, so the two know each other very well.

    The Raiders are devoid of answers at the quarterback position, so Trask could fill a need as a backup in the short term. He is a free agent with little experience, so it would be a cheap venture to bring him in. Based on where he was drafted, he could have some serious potential as well.

    5. Chris Godwin, WR

    Chris Godwin and Tom Brady were absolutely electric in their time together on the Buccaneers, serving as major catalysts on the Super Bowl-winning squad in 2020. Spytek was also integral in him being drafted to Tampa Bay in 2017.

    Now, Godwin is set to test free agency in a year when the Raiders have ample cap space to make a big splash. Las Vegas needs another strong wide receiver alongside Jakobi Meyers, and Godwin would be a huge asset to whoever the team brings in at quarterback.


    1. Rob Gronkowski – The dynamic duo of Brady and Gronk could reunite in Las Vegas, bringing their chemistry and playmaking abilities to the Raiders’ offense.
    2. Antonio Brown – Despite their brief stint together in New England, Brown and Brady showed promising potential on the field. A reunion in Las Vegas could reignite their connection and boost the Raiders’ receiving corps.
    3. LeGarrette Blount – The veteran running back has proven to be a reliable option in the backfield, and his physical running style could complement Brady’s passing game in Las Vegas.
    4. Danny Amendola – A familiar face for Brady, Amendola has the ability to make clutch catches and provide a reliable target in critical moments. A reunion with Brady in Las Vegas could benefit the Raiders’ passing game.
    5. Dion Lewis – The versatile running back has shown his ability to contribute both as a rusher and receiver out of the backfield. Lewis could provide Brady with a reliable check-down option in Las Vegas, adding depth to the Raiders’ offense.

    Tags:

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    2. NFL free agents linked to Tom Brady in Las Vegas
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  • Secret Service agents responded to Chicago school, not ICE – NBC Chicago


    Despite earlier reports that ICE agents tried to enter a Chicago elementary school Friday, the agency says it wasn’t them. So what exactly happened?

    The U.S. Secret Service said the encounter was actually agents conducting a “protective intelligence investigation.”

    A spokesperson for the Secret Service said the agency “was investigating a threat to one of our protectees in reference to the recent TikTok ban.”

    “On Friday special agents from the United States Secret Service Chicago Field Office were investigating a threat made against a government official we protect,” Anthony Guglielmi told NBC Chicago. “In the course of their investigation, agents first visited a residence in a local neighborhood and then made a visit to Hamline Elementary School. Agents identified themselves to the school principal and provided business cards with their contact information. The agents left without incident.”

    How it started

    The encounter was first reported Friday afternoon, when Chicago Public Schools’ chief education officer said ICE agents appeared at Hamline Elementary School in Chicago’s Back of the Yards neighborhood. The agents did not enter the school and left a short a time later, she said.

    “Earlier today, Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents showed up at Hamline Elementary School,” Chief Education Officer Bogdana Chkoumbova said during a press conference at the school. “School staff followed CPS established protocols. They kept ICE agents outside of the school and contacted CPS law department and CPS Office of Safety and Security for further guidance. The ICE agents were not allowed into the school and were not permitted to speak to any students or staff members. Here is the bottom line, our students and staff are safe. Our protocols were followed.”

    The school’s principal said the school would not open its doors for ICE unnecessarily.

    “I am very grateful to all of our Hamline staff here for upholding all of our protocols and ensuring the safety of our students. We will not open our doors for ICE, and we are here to protect our children and make sure they have access to an excellent education. We stand in solidarity with our families and the Back of the Yards community,” Natasha Ortega said.

    A spokesperson for ICE later said “this was not an U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement encounter.”

    Chicago police also said they “did not receive any calls for service at that location.” The Cook County Sheriff’s office also denied any involvement.

    Chicago Public Schools officials say ICE agents were seen at Hamline Elementary School, but not allowed inside.

    CPS CEO says agents showed credentials

    In an interview with MSNBC shortly after the encounter, CPS CEO Pedro Martinez said the agents “presented credentials and shared that they were from ICE.”

    “They showed credentials to my staff,” Martinez said again after being informed of the ICE spokesperson’s response.

    CPS later provided an updated statement, explaining the situation, on Friday afternoon:

    “Earlier today, Chicago Public School leaders shared that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents showed up this morning (Friday) at Hamline Elementary School. 

    After our District officials shared public statements, we learned that the agents who visited the school were from the U.S. Secret Service. Our original communication was a result of a misunderstanding, reflective of the fear and concerns in the community amid the new administration’s focus on undocumented immigrants. 

    Here’s what happened: Two individuals showed up at the school door and presented identification that includes the name Department of Homeland Security, the federal agency that oversees ICE. School officials proceeded to respond to the agents with the understanding that they were from ICE, amid rumors and reports that the agency was in the community. 

    Regardless of which branch of Homeland Security visited this school, officials followed the established protocols to ensure student safety. The agents were not allowed into the school or permitted to speak with staff or students. Hamline administrators also worked with CPS’ Law Department and CPS’ Office of Safety and Security. The situation was handled with the federal agents leaving the campus without entry.

    While this was a misunderstanding in terms of the specific branch of DHS, the school’s response demonstrates that our system, in partnership with community organizations, is prepared and ready to keep our students and staff safe.”

    What does the Secret Service do?

    According to the Department of Homeland Security, “USSS safeguards the nation’s financial infrastructure and payment systems to preserve the integrity of the economy, and protects national leaders, visiting heads of state and government, designated sites, and National Special Security Events.”

    Guglielmi said the “Secret Service does not investigate or enforce immigration matters.”

    “Only investigations of a threat,” he said.

    Schools on alert

    The incident comes amid heightened concerns in immigrant communities across Chicago, though there has so far been no confirmation of raids.

    Schools across the Chicago area have released guidance about potential situations after the Trump Administration revoked previous guidance prohibiting immigration arrests at schools, churches and hospitals.

    Trump came into office promising to undertake deportation operations and other crackdowns on immigration.

    Tom Homan, who is expected to be named Trump’s border czar, has promised to “knock down” roadblocks put up by state law enforcement, and said he intends to undertake deportation operations within Chicago and Illinois.

    Reports first surfaced over the weekend ahead of Trump’s inauguration, stating ICE officials were planning a major enforcement operation that would target immigrants for several days, according to a document reviewed by NBC News and a person familiar with the planning. The person, who requested anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the operation, said multiple locations across Chicago will be targeted.

    Though Chicago Public Schools did not immediately confirm the Hamlin School presence, the district did put out a message to families earlier this week saying it planned to “maintain its current policies and procedures to actively protect students, staff, and their families.”

    “As CPS continues to receive more information about federal policy changes, CPS will continue to review our own protocols and we will continue to provide the appropriate school-based staff guidance on how best to protect our students, staff, families, and school communities,” the district said in a statement while sharing its policies and guidelines.

    Trump official says ICE arrests were made earlier in Chicago

    A Trump administration official confirmed to NBC News that ICE arrests took place across the U.S., including in Illinois, Utah, California, Minnesota, New York, Florida and Maryland. Chicago was among the specific cities noted by the official as having confirmed arrests.

    According to this official, ICE made 538 arrests —  373 criminal arrests and 165 non-criminal arrests —throughout the U.S. on Thursday.

    NBC Chicago has not independently confirmed if any arrests took place in Chicago and, if so, where.



    Recently, there have been rumors circulating that ICE agents were spotted at a Chicago school. However, NBC Chicago has confirmed that it was actually Secret Service agents who responded to the school, not ICE.

    The Secret Service agents were reportedly at the school for a separate matter, not related to immigration enforcement. Despite the initial confusion, it is important to clarify that ICE was not involved in this incident.

    It is crucial to fact-check information before spreading rumors, especially when it comes to sensitive topics like immigration enforcement. In this case, it was a different federal agency that was present at the school.

    Stay informed and verify information before jumping to conclusions. Let’s strive to share accurate and reliable news to prevent misinformation from spreading.

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