ICE now allows warrantless home entries using internal approvals, sparking legal challenges over Fourth Amendment violations.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has issued a directive allowing agents to enter private homes without a judge-issued warrant, relying instead on internal "administrative warrants" signed by agency officials. The policy, authorized by Acting Director Todd Lyons and supported by House Speaker Mike Johnson, permits forced entry during enforcement hours if necessary, expanding past practice. Critics, including legal experts and civil rights groups, argue the move violates the Fourth Amendment’s protection against unreasonable searches, as the Supreme Court has consistently required judicial warrants for home entries unless an emergency exists. Lawsuits have been filed challenging the directive on constitutional grounds, with concerns that it undermines judicial oversight, risks abuse, and may lead to suppressed evidence. The legal community warns the policy could set a dangerous precedent for executive overreach.