DHS Secretary ‘Continually’ Evaluating Security in Controversial Immigration Program

ABC News(WASHINGTON) — The head of the Department of Homeland Security said on Tuesday his office is “continually evaluat[ing]” the security situation surrounding an immigration program that critics said in an ABC News investigation could be exploited by criminals, spies or terrorists with deep pockets.

“I am aware of the concerns that have been raised centering around security,” Johnson told ABC News after the original news report was published. “I think the underlying purpose of the EB-5 program is a good one – to promote economic growth, investment in this country. We continually evaluate whether more security should be provided for the program.”

The EB-5 immigration program was the subject of a months-long ABC News investigation.

The program allows foreigners who are willing to invest $500,000 in an American business to jump to the front of the immigration line and obtain legal status to live in the U.S. for two years. If the investment is shown to create at least 10 jobs, the investor can receive a “Green Card” – permanent residency.

But according to five DHS whistle-blowers and internal documents reviewed by ABC News, the program meant to grow American jobs also has purported security weaknesses that have allowed a host of allegedly shady characters to enter the country and prompted fears it could be used by terrorists.

Echoing a statement provided to ABC News by DHS late Monday, Johnson said the DHS has asked Congress for “more flexibility in terms of more security assurances, bringing more flexibility and discretion by my department to how we administer the program.”

“So that’s something we need to evaluate,” he said.

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