Sen. Jim Banks (R-IN) is sharply criticizing Democrats over immigration enforcement, arguing that efforts to reduce or eliminate Immigration and Customs Enforcement would put Americans at greater risk. In an interview with Breitbart News Saturday, Banks pointed to recent deadly crashes involving drivers identified as being in the country illegally as evidence that stronger enforcement is necessary.
One of the most recent incidents occurred in Indiana, where authorities say a truck driver allegedly caused a catastrophic collision that killed four members of the Amish community. The Department of Homeland Security identified the suspect as Bekzhan Beishekeev, a native of Kyrgyzstan, who allegedly struck a van carrying as many as 15 passengers.
The victims were identified as Henry Eicher, 58, along with his sons Menno, 33, and Paul, 31, and Simon Schwartz, 22. According to Banks, the crash also left the driver of the van seriously injured.
Banks said that the suspect had entered the United States during the previous administration and was released into the country under a parole process that allowed migrants to use the CBP One mobile application. He further alleged that the driver later received a commercial driver’s license in Pennsylvania, which enabled him to operate a commercial vehicle on U.S. highways.
The Indiana senator used the case to criticize Democratic lawmakers, arguing that many on the left support policies that limit ICE’s authority. Banks described such positions as “radical” and said they mirror broader calls to defund law enforcement agencies.
He maintained that ICE officers play a critical role in removing individuals who pose public safety risks and preventing additional tragedies. According to Banks, federal immigration enforcement is necessary to keep communities safe and reduce the likelihood of similar incidents.
Banks also referenced another fatal crash involving an Indiana National Guard member, Spc. Terry Frye, who died after a collision during a convoy training trip. Local officials said the truck driver involved in that incident was later taken into ICE custody.
In both cases, Banks argued that existing immigration policies and state-level licensing decisions contributed to circumstances that allowed the drivers to operate commercial vehicles. He called for stricter enforcement measures and urged the federal government to take steps to prevent individuals without legal status from obtaining commercial licenses.
The senator concluded that stronger immigration enforcement and changes to policies implemented in recent years are necessary to prevent further loss of life.
