As part of its mission, ERO manages programs and initiatives to identify, investigate, arrest, prosecute and remove noncitizens unlawfully present in the United States and ensure the country’s immigration enforcement process.

ERO uses law enforcement and intelligence-driven leads to identify noncitizens who may present a threat to national security or public safety, or otherwise undermine the integrity of U.S. immigration laws. ICE officers conduct targeted enforcement actions after thorough investigations.

As part of its public safety mission, ERO also arrests and prosecutes noncitizens for immigration-related criminal offenses. The Criminal Apprehension Program (CAP) — in conjunction with the Offices of United States Attorneys (USAO) — actively pursues criminal prosecutions for violations of the nation's immigration-related criminal statutes.