DOJ Staffer Claims Unfair Firing Over Husband’s Anti-ICE App

A forensic accountant for the Department of Justice in Austin, Texas, alleges she was dismissed abruptly last week as retaliation for her husband’s development of a controversial anti-ICE application. Carolyn Feinstein states she has minor shares in the company behind the app, which warns users when immigration enforcement agents are nearby.

Feinstein asserts her termination was personal punishment linked to her husband’s creation, ICEBlock, an app that alerts users if ICE agents have been seen within five miles. The app’s publicity last month on CNN prompted swift criticism from officials, including ICE’s acting director and the border czar, who called for an investigation into Feinstein’s connections.

She explained she disclosed her ties after receiving death threats linked to the app, which she says she did to protect herself and her family. Feinstein notes she believed informing her employer was necessary given the threats, especially since she and her husband live together.

The department’s spokesperson stated that the DOJ has been investigating her links to the app for several weeks, following concerns over her financial interests. They emphasized that ICEBlock is used by illegal immigrants to evade law enforcement, and reaffirmed their stance against threats to officers.

Feinstein maintains her role at the DOJ was impartial and denies any wrongdoing. She expressed frustration, asserting her career was dedicated to public service and that accusations of harm she allegedly intended are unfounded.

The controversy highlights ongoing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement and the role of technology in such issues.