New special agent in charge takes helm at ICE HSI Newark
NEWARK, N.J. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has named Terence S. Opiola as the new special agent in charge of ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) office based in Newark.
As special agent in charge, Opiola, a 25-year veteran of federal law enforcement, supervises a cadre of special agents located across New Jersey. HSI special agents protect national security and enforce immigration and customs laws by conducting criminal investigations in various mission areas, such as: drug smuggling, illegal exporting munitions and high-tech items, money laundering, financial crimes, transnational gangs, human smuggling and trafficking, intellectual property rights, and crimes against children including child sex tourism and possessing child pornography.
“I could think of no greater opportunity than to lead a group of dedicated and intelligent special agents and support staff in New Jersey”, said Opiola. “I eagerly look forward to building on the foundation in place and collaborating further with all agencies and law enforcement personnel to solidify a proud impact on public safety.”
HSI plays a key role in maintaining the safety and security of the United States relative to international trade and commerce, financial markets, contraband, industrial and strategic parity, and immigration and border integrity. HSI uses its unique customs and immigration law enforcement authorities to identify, disrupt and dismantle criminal organizations and other threats. HSI also works to deprive potential terrorists and transnational gangs from employing smuggling networks and methods to further their crimes against the United States.
“Make no mistake about it, there are always challenges but our special agents are up to the challenge and will excel to help safeguard our country,” said Opiola.
Prior to accepting the position as HSI special agent in charge in Newark, Opiola led ICE's Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR), Northeast Region. In that capacity, he directed an office responsible for investigating allegations of public corruption, employee criminal and administrative misconduct, ICE detainee sexual assaults, and civil rights violations.
Opiola is a member of the Senior Executive Service (SES).
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