FBI Under Director Kash Patel Shifts Focus to Violent Crime, Drug Trafficking, and Illegal Immigration

WASHINGTON (AP) — Under the leadership of Director Kash Patel, the FBI has significantly heightened its focus on violent crime, drug trafficking, and illegal immigration. This shift in priorities aligns with the administration’s emphasis on these issues, placing “Crush Violent Crime” at the top of the FBI’s revised priority list.

Patel has been visibly involved in high-profile cases, such as the arrest of an MS-13 gang leader and the seizure of $510 million in illegal narcotics. His presence at these events underscores the bureau’s commitment to combating these threats.

Despite this new focus, the FBI maintains its dedication to investigating international and domestic terrorism. Recent violent acts, including a Molotov cocktail attack in Colorado by an overstayed visa holder, highlight the ongoing threat of terrorism.

The bureau has undergone restructuring, disbanding an FBI-led task force on foreign influence and dissolving a key public corruption squad. Critics worry that the increased attention on violent crime and immigration may divert resources from other complex criminal and national security threats.

Immigration enforcement has become a significant new focus for the FBI, with over 10,000 immigration-related arrests since Trump’s inauguration. Agents have been deployed to ensure the safety of migrant children and field offices have been directed to commit resources to immigration enforcement.

The FBI’s new priorities also include “Rebuild Public Trust” and “Fierce Organizational Accountability,” reflecting efforts to address claims of politicization and to disclose files from past investigations.

While the threat from China remains a constant concern, the FBI continues to adapt its mission to meet evolving threats, ensuring it stays ahead of emerging challenges.