Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons will resign effective May 31, 2026, just hours after congressional testimony revealed 44 people died in agency custody during his tenure—the highest death toll in ICE history.
Record Deaths Follow Capitol Hill Testimony
Lyons disclosed the unprecedented custody death count during a Thursday hearing on Capitol Hill, where lawmakers questioned him about conditions under his leadership since March 2025. The 44 deaths represent the highest number of custody fatalities in the agency’s existence, marking a significant increase from previous administrations. Within hours of his testimony, the Department of Homeland Security announced his departure, though officials characterized it as a voluntary resignation to pursue private sector opportunities rather than a forced removal.
Homeland Security Praises Enforcement Record
Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin issued a statement Thursday evening defending Lyons’ record despite the custody death revelations. Mullin credited the outgoing director with removing dangerous criminals from American communities and revitalizing an agency he claimed had been restricted for four years. The Oklahoma former senator emphasized that Lyons helped the Trump administration target murderers, rapists, pedophiles, terrorists, and gang members, making communities safer. Mullin thanked Lyons for his service and wished him success in the private sector, making no reference to the custody deaths that prompted congressional scrutiny.
Latest Shakeup in Department Leadership
Lyons becomes the second major Homeland Security official to depart following contentious congressional testimony. Secretary Mullin himself assumed his current role after President Trump fired former Secretary Kristi Noem in March. Noem faced harsh questioning about a 220 million dollar advertising campaign that featured her prominently, raising concerns about misuse of department resources. The pattern of departures following congressional hearings suggests increased accountability pressure on Trump administration immigration enforcement officials.
Questions Remain About Custody Conditions
Lyons could not be reached for comment following the resignation announcement. The circumstances surrounding the 44 custody deaths remain under examination, with lawmakers likely to continue investigating detention conditions and medical care protocols under his leadership. The record death toll raises fundamental questions about enforcement priorities versus detainee welfare, a debate that will likely intensify as the administration seeks a permanent ICE director. The resignation leaves the agency facing another leadership transition during a period of aggressive immigration enforcement operations.