Border Czar Tom Homan: “Protest, But Don’t Cross the Line—Put a Hand on an Officer, Go to Jail”

Former Acting ICE Director and current Border Czar Tom Homan issued a firm warning this week regarding ongoing protests connected to immigration and border security policies. Speaking during a recent interview, Homan reaffirmed that while Americans have a constitutional right to protest, that right comes with clear limits — especially when it involves confrontations with law enforcement.

Homan acknowledged that demonstrations are an essential part of democratic society. However, he stressed that protests must remain peaceful and lawful in order to maintain public safety and uphold the integrity of law enforcement. “Everyone has the right to protest as long as they don’t cross the line,” Homan said, drawing a distinction between legitimate expressions of dissent and actions that escalate into violence or obstruction.

His remarks come amid a series of nationwide demonstrations, some of which have resulted in tense standoffs between activists and police. A growing number of these protests have taken place at government facilities, border checkpoints, and public spaces where immigration policies are being debated or enforced. In several cases, clashes have erupted, leading to arrests and renewed scrutiny over how police should handle civil unrest.

For Homan, the line is unambiguous: physical contact with officers will not be tolerated. “When they put hands on a law enforcement officer, they’re getting arrested, going to jail,” he said. His statement served as both a warning to protesters and a show of support for officers who have increasingly found themselves at the center of politically charged demonstrations.

The former ICE chief emphasized that law enforcement personnel are tasked with maintaining order, often in unpredictable and volatile situations. He expressed concern that heightened tensions surrounding immigration issues have created an environment where officers are routinely confronted with hostility. According to Homan, allowing aggressive behavior to go unchecked would set a dangerous precedent.

“You have a right to protest, but don’t cross the line,” he reiterated, underscoring the responsibility of protesters to ensure their actions do not endanger police or other demonstrators.

Homan’s comments have drawn mixed reactions. Supporters praised his strong stance, arguing that assaults on officers must be met with swift consequences to prevent further escalation. They contend that law enforcement officers deserve protection as they carry out difficult and often thankless work.

Critics, however, argue that aggressive policing at protests can sometimes provoke the confrontations officers later cite as justification for arrests. Civil liberties groups warn that statements like Homan’s risk discouraging legitimate protest activity by creating an atmosphere of intimidation. They assert that while violence is unacceptable, law enforcement must also be held accountable for excessive force or misconduct.

Despite the divided reactions, Homan’s message remains clear: peaceful protest is an American right, but physical aggression toward officers will lead directly to arrest. As immigration debates intensify and demonstrations continue across the country, his warning underscores the ongoing struggle to balance public expression with public safety.