Today, Secretary of Homeland Security Tom Ridge announced plans to better mobilize the people and resources of the US Department of Homeland Security. Included in those plans is the transfer of the Federal Air Marshal Service (FAMS) and the Explosives Unit from the Transportation Security Administration to the Bureau of Customs and Immigration Enforcement (ICE).

The following is a statement by Michael J. Garcia, Acting Assistant Secretary for ICE: “Secretary Ridge has improved homeland security capabilities by fusing the Department’s investigative resources within the Border and Transportation Security Directorate. This continues his efforts to refine the Department’s organization for maximum efficiency,” said Garcia. “ICE offers the Air Marshal Service multiple investigative resources, such as additional access to intelligence, better coordination with other law enforcement agencies, and broader training opportunities.

This fusion will not only establish an integrated law enforcement presence in the aviation sector; it will enhance ICE’s overall law enforcement capabilities and resources to enforce its mission, which is to detect and prevent vulnerabilities or violations that threaten the nation's security. “I have worked closely with Admiral Loy and Undersecretary Hutchinson, and will continue to work closely with them, to make this a smooth transition that not only enhances national security but which provides new opportunities for all of the men and women of ICE, including the Federal Air Marshals.“

Posted on AILA InfoNet at Doc. No. 03090240 (Sep. 2, 2003)