Immigration and Customs Enforcement
Southeast Lindsay Williams, 2Benjii ENT
Recently on "The WAOK Morning Show" executive producer Christopher Smith and Media personality Million Cooper spoke with the newly appointed special agent in charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Atlanta Steven Schrank about his insights into the agency's efforts to combat a wide range of criminal activities that impact Georgia and the surrounding region. Leading a team of nearly 300 agents and support personnel across eight offices in Georgia and Alabama, Mr. Schrank oversees investigations into transnational criminal organizations, human trafficking, cybercrime, and border security.
TO LISTEN TO THE FULL INTERVIEW, CLICK HERE.
As part of the Department of Homeland Security, (HSI) focuses on protecting communities by addressing illegal activities such as drug trafficking, human smuggling, and the illegal transfer of sensitive technologies. The agency’s mission is to safeguard national security while also ensuring the safety of residents in Georgia and the broader Southeastern United States.
Despite the changing political landscape, Mr. Schrank emphasized that HSI's priorities remain focused on ongoing threats, including drugs like fentanyl and methamphetamines, which continue to flow into U.S. ports of entry. The agency also tackles gang violence, public safety issues, and other criminal activities that threaten local communities.
A key area of focus for (HSI) is cybersecurity, particularly online child exploitation. With the increased use of digital devices and social media, Mr. Schrank discussed the growing risks posed to children, emphasizing the importance of parental vigilance. HSI's “Know to Protect” campaign seeks to raise awareness about online threats and provides resources for parents to monitor their children's online activity and protect them from predators.
HSI’s efforts extend beyond cybercrime to address broader issues such as human trafficking, violent crime, and national security threats. Mr. Schrank explained that specialized teams within the agency handle different aspects of law enforcement, from cybercrime and child exploitation to human trafficking and technology transfer investigations. The agency’s work is vital in intercepting criminal activity before it affects communities.
HSI also plays a key role in border security, particularly in the context of the ongoing situation at the U.S.-Mexico border. Mr. Schrank highlighted the agency's involvement in supporting federal efforts to enhance security at the border, especially with regard to individuals attempting to unlawfully enter the U.S. and make their way into Georgia.
As technology continues to evolve, Mr. Schrank acknowledged the challenges law enforcement faces in keeping up with the ever-changing landscape of crime. He urged parents to be proactive in setting up digital safety controls for their children and to have ongoing conversations about the dangers of the online world. The resources provided by HSI’s campaigns, such as "Know to Protect," aim to educate the public on how to recognize and respond to these digital threats.
For more information on child safety online and to access resources, visit Know2Protect.gov.