Trump Administration Introduces Tip Line to Report Illegal Immigrants in Public Housing

Published: November 28, 2025 | Last Updated: November 28, 2025

In a recent press conference held in Memphis on November 24, Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner unveiled a new initiative from the Trump Administration: a dedicated tip line for reporting illegal immigrants or wanted criminals residing in public housing.

This move builds on earlier efforts by the administration to restrict access to public housing programs, such as Section 8, ensuring these resources are prioritized for American citizens in need rather than being allocated to undocumented individuals.

The tip line aims to enhance enforcement by allowing community members to report violations directly, facilitating investigations and potential arrests of those unlawfully using these benefits.

During the announcement, Secretary Turner was joined by Attorney General Pam Bondi and Tennessee Governor Bill Lee. He emphasized the importance of safety in public housing, stating, “At HUD, we believe public housing should be safe. That’s our conviction. A safe community starts with safe housing. If the housing is safe, the community is safe, and we want to take good care of the most vulnerable people in our country.”

Turner further detailed that the tip line, managed by the HUD Office of the Inspector General, will enable residents to report issues involving criminals, illegal immigrants, sex offenders, human traffickers, gang members, drug distributors, and those committing fraud.

The program will initially launch in Memphis, where the local Housing Authority oversees assistance for over 9,700 households with a $1.7 million budget. Summarizing the intent, Turner urged, “Here’s our message: Protect your home. Protect your family. If you see it, if you hear about it, report it.”

Attorney General Bondi also spoke on the initiative, highlighting the Department of Justice’s commitment to combating threats from gangs, traffickers, and illegal immigrants. She noted, “We cannot allow criminals—whether gangs, traffickers, or illegal aliens—to terrorize our communities, especially in places meant to protect the vulnerable like public housing. This tip line is a tool to empower residents and hold perpetrators accountable.”