How does HSI's role in immigration law enforcement differ from local police?

HSI, or Homeland Security Investigations, plays a unique and critical role in immigration law enforcement, distinct from local police agencies, which primarily focus on state and local laws. HSI enforces federal immigration laws, which includes the investigation of immigration-related offenses, human trafficking, and customs violations. This federal jurisdiction allows HSI to operate on a national level and tackle complex transnational issues that local police do not have the mandate or resources to address.

In contrast, local police operate within the framework of state laws and are primarily concerned with maintaining public safety and order in their communities. They often deal with local crimes and municipal ordinances rather than federal offenses. This delineation of responsibilities is crucial for understanding how HSI's focus on federal immigration enforcement issues sets it apart from the function of local law enforcement agencies.