DHS Accused of Blocking Oversight as Noem Returns to Hill (3)

A Department of Homeland Security watchdog told congressional appropriators the agency has been blocking access to records needed for oversight investigations, according to a letter sent to lawmakers and reviewed by Bloomberg Law.

The department has denied investigators access to records and data systems tied to multiple audits, inspections, and criminal probes involving immigration enforcement and national security matters, the letter said.

“Over the last several months the Department of Homeland Security has systematically obstructed the work of the DHS Office of Inspector General,” Inspector General Joseph Cuffari told lawmakers.

Cuffari’s letter comes to light as Homeland Security Secretary Kristi ...