Federal authorities have reportedly opened an investigation into Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) following allegations that she employed an undocumented immigrant on her congressional staff and helped other migrants evade U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations.
The probe was announced by former ICE Director Tom Homan, who now serves as Border Czar under the Trump administration. Homan confirmed the inquiry during an interview with conservative commentator Benny Johnson earlier this week.
“It’s being looked at — can’t comment past that,” Homan told Johnson. “I’m aware of it, and we’ve asked ICE to drill in on that case. As far as her educating people how to evade ICE arrests, she’s really educating them on how to avoid prosecution. That’s a crime.”
Investigation Centers on AOC Staffer Diego de la Vega
According to reports, the investigation involves Diego de la Vega, who allegedly worked as Deputy Communications Director for Ocasio-Cortez despite being in the country unlawfully.
De la Vega reportedly left the United States in March amid growing deportation efforts, citing concerns for his safety. Before joining AOC’s team, he served as a “special assistant” to former New York Assemblymember Robert J. Rodriguez and interned for Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-NY).
De la Vega became politically active in 2010 while advocating for the DREAM Act, legislation designed to offer a pathway to legal status for undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children.
Ocasio-Cortez praised him publicly in a 2022 interview with Migrant Insider, saying, “Diego is amazing.”
Homan Requests DOJ Action
Homan confirmed that he has formally requested an investigation into the congresswoman through the Department of Justice and ICE.
The allegations stem not only from the staffer’s employment but also from reports that Ocasio-Cortez hosted seminars instructing undocumented immigrants on how to avoid ICE enforcement.
“There are statutes on the books — when you knowingly hinder removal, that’s a crime,” Homan emphasized.
“Know Your Rights” Sessions Spark Controversy
Earlier this year, Ocasio-Cortez organized a “Know Your Rights” online event where immigration attorneys advised participants on how to handle encounters with ICE agents. The bilingual forum (English and Spanish) included legal guidance, downloadable documents, and privacy release forms that would allow AOC’s office to intervene in deportation proceedings.
One document stated that immigrants “do not have to open the door” for ICE officers unless they possess a judge-signed warrant.
AOC defended the event, claiming it was intended to educate immigrants about their constitutional rights — not to help them evade law enforcement.
“I was fully using the First Amendment to inform people of their rights,” Ocasio-Cortez told Fox News. “They say a lot of things, but I’ve written a formal letter [to the DOJ], and they won’t respond.”
She labeled the allegations “politically motivated.”
District Crime Surge Adds to Political Pressure
The controversy comes as Ocasio-Cortez faces mounting criticism from constituents over deteriorating conditions in her Bronx and Queens district.
According to The New York Post, major crime has risen more than 70 percent since she took office in 2019.
- The 110th Precinct in Queens, which covers part of the Roosevelt Avenue corridor — an area known for human trafficking and prostitution — saw a 105% surge in major crimes, the highest in the city.
- The 115th Precinct, also within her district, experienced an 85% increase over the same period.
“She’s not doing s–t. She doesn’t live in the neighborhood, she doesn’t care,” said Guadelupe Alvarez, an Elmhurst resident and former supporter of Ocasio-Cortez.
Critics argue that AOC has become more focused on her national profile and progressive activism than on addressing rising crime and economic struggles in her district.
AOC Denies Wrongdoing as Inquiry Unfolds
Ocasio-Cortez continues to deny all wrongdoing, maintaining that her office follows federal employment laws and compliance standards.
The DOJ has not yet confirmed whether a formal criminal investigation is underway.
If the allegations are substantiated, the congresswoman could face potential ethics violations, criminal penalties, or expulsion from Congress under federal law prohibiting the employment of unauthorized immigrants and obstruction of ICE operations.
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