An Associated Press investigation found that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement hired approximately 12,000 new officers and agents during a rapid expansion funded by a $75 billion Congressional appropriation to support mass deportation operations announced in January 2025. The hiring spree included applicants with questionable qualifications and inadequate background vetting. Many new hires had histories of bankruptcies, financial problems, prior misconduct allegations, and incomplete law enforcement training. Some officers began work before completing background checks. The AP identified more than 40 officers with publicly disclosed positions on LinkedIn who had undisclosed financial problems and unstable employment records.