ICE Strengthens Arrests and Deportations in the U.S.: Who Is Affected?

The enforcement of immigration laws in the United States is not only focused on the border but also within the country. The Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has intensified interior deportations, targeting individuals with criminal records and those who have violated immigration laws.

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Who Can Be Deported?

ICE has the authority to deport:

• Migrants who entered illegally or overstayed their visas.
• Legal residents convicted of specific crimes.
• Immigrants with temporary visas who violated their conditions.

However, those with temporary protections, such as DACA or TPS, are generally not deported unless their status is revoked.

Trends in Deportations

Interior deportations have decreased over the past 15 years, from 155,000 annually (2009-2016) to 38,000 (2021-2024), while border expulsions have increased. This shift is part of ICE’s strategy to prioritize public safety and better manage resources.

Arrest Methods and Local Cooperation

ICE identifies deportable individuals through police databases and community operations. Many arrests occur after an individual is detained for another offense. However, in “sanctuary cities,” cooperation with ICE is limited, making deportation enforcement more challenging.

Conclusion

The U.S. immigration landscape continues to evolve, with ICE focusing on strategic deportations. The impact on immigrant communities depends on factors such as criminal records, immigration status, and local policies.

From: https://www.migrationpolicy.org/content/ice-arrests-deportations-interior 

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