Acting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Director Todd Lyons has submitted his resignation, effective May 31, Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin confirmed on Thursday. Lyons, a veteran of the agency, cited a move to the private sector as the reason for his departure.
Lyons has been a central figure in defending ICE’s operations amid heightened scrutiny, particularly regarding its role in President Trump’s mass deportation initiatives. Recent criticism has focused on ICE’s enforcement actions, including the fatal shootings of U.S. citizens Renee Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis earlier this year.
Director Lyons has been a great leader of ICE. Thanks to his leadership, American communities are safer.
ICE’s enforcement efforts under Lyons’ tenure resulted in 442,000 deportations in fiscal year 2025. His resignation comes as the agency continues to face political and legal challenges over its operational practices.
Lyons will remain in his role until the end of May to assist with the transition process. The search for his permanent replacement is expected to begin immediately.