08 Mar 2026
1h 2m

882: Give a Little Whistle

Podcast cover

This American Life

The podcast investigates alleged systemic issues within ICE, featuring two distinct narratives. First, ICE lawyer Ryan Schwank recounts his experience at a DHS training academy, detailing how he witnessed the implementation of policies that potentially violate the Fourth Amendment, the cutting of critical training elements, and the suppression of internal reporting mechanisms. Schwank's testimony to Congress exposed the agency's alleged prioritization of rapid agent deployment over thorough training and constitutional adherence. Second, a court hearing transcript reveals Judge Jerry Blackwell's frustration with ICE's non-compliance with court-ordered releases. The transcript highlights ICE attorney Julie Lee's candid admission of the agency's chaotic handling of habeas cases and the personal toll it takes on her, while also detailing the ordeal of "Oscar," an individual unlawfully detained and transported across multiple states despite a court order for his release.

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