The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a blistering fact-check on Friday in response to NBC News, accusing the outlet of publishing false and misleading claims about conditions inside ICE detention centers.
NBC’s report included allegations from illegal aliens who claimed they were underfed and held in overcrowded facilities. But DHS pushed back hard, calling the network’s coverage inaccurate and irresponsible.
“Why does the media continue to push the lies of criminal illegal aliens in detention and villainize ICE law enforcement?” asked Tricia McLaughlin, DHS Assistant Secretary.
NBC Quoted Complaints from Detainees
NBC featured complaints from detainees, including Alfredo Parada Calderon, a Salvadoran national, who claimed the meat served “looked like small pebbles,” and a Venezuelan woman named Rubimar, who said her deported husband was fed “two spoonfuls of rice.”
DHS dismissed the report as unfounded and clarified that all detainees receive proper meals certified by licensed dieticians.
“Ensuring the safety, security, and well-being of individuals in our custody is a top priority at ICE,” the DHS release stated.
DHS Responds Point-by-Point
In total, DHS and ICE fact-checked four key claims in NBC’s reporting:
Claim: Foodborne illness outbreak in Tacoma, WA
NBC said 57 detainees became sick after eating reheated collard greens that tested positive for Bacillus cereus.
ICE response: While the Health Department was notified, on-site medical staff found no link between the food and the illness.
Claim: Chronic food shortages
NBC alleged smaller portions and late meals.
ICE response: False. Detainees receive a certified 2400–2600 calorie diet per day, and portion sizes are regularly reviewed by Food Service Directors.
Claim: Inadequate meals
NBC’s detainee sources alleged meals were insufficient.
ICE response: Meals meet strict nutritional standards and are monitored for compliance.
Claim: Overcrowding
NBC alleged overcrowded conditions in ICE facilities.
ICE response: DHS did not address this claim directly in the release, but emphasized overall conditions meet federal standards and detainees have access to medical care and legal services.
DHS Calls Out Media Narrative
“NBC’s false reporting harms public trust and undermines the critical work of our agents,” DHS said on X.
“[They] continue to push unverified claims from individuals in custody without evidence.”
