Federal authorities have issued a stark warning about rising threats to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facilities. A joint intelligence bulletin from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), circulated nationwide on October 2, 2025, highlights a disturbing trend: domestic violent extremists are conducting pre-planned, lethal attacks against ICE personnel and infrastructure.
Escalation in Tactics and Violence
The bulletin describes a shift from property damage to targeted violence. “These attacks represent an evolution in tactics and an escalation in violence compared to past incidents,” the memo states. Since June 2025, extremists in at least three states have carried out coordinated assaults, including sniper-style shootings and ambushes.
One of the most severe incidents occurred in Dallas, Texas, where 29-year-old Joshua Jahn fired from a rooftop into ICE transport vehicles, killing two detainees and injuring another. Authorities confirmed that Jahn had conducted surveillance of the facility beforehand, identifying personnel movement patterns. He later died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Prairieland Detention Center Attack and Arrests
Another major attack took place on July 4th at the ICE Prairieland Detention Center in Alvarado, Texas, which houses up to 2,000 detainees. A gunman opened fire on law enforcement from a concealed position. Investigators discovered that the group responsible used encrypted communication platforms and a local safehouse for planning. As of September, 20 individuals have been arrested, including those who helped the shooter evade capture.
Protests as Cover for Violence
The bulletin also warns of reactive attacks during lawful protests, particularly in Los Angeles and multiple cities in Oregon. Extremists have used these gatherings to damage ICE property and confront law enforcement. “Small groups of threat actors have leveraged large, lawful protests to engage in violent activity,” the report notes.
Federal Response and Security Measures
In response to the escalating violence, DHS is increasing security at ICE facilities nationwide. “Our ICE officers are facing a more than 1000% increase in assaults,” said DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin. The agency is considering deploying personnel from other federal units, and military support has been floated for cities like Chicago and Portland, where threats are most concentrated.
President Trump has condemned the attacks, blaming political rhetoric for inciting violence. “ICE Officers, and other Brave Members of Law Enforcement, are under grave threat,” he posted on social media.
Implications for GovCon and Federal Security Contractors
This bulletin has direct implications for government contractors in the security, surveillance, and infrastructure sectors. Increased funding and urgency around facility hardening, threat detection, and personnel protection are expected. Contractors working with DHS, ICE, and local law enforcement may see new task orders and emergency procurement actions in the coming weeks.
