Recent reports have brought to light an alarming pattern: there is a rise in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detentions taking place at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) field offices. These detentions are happening during scheduled interviews for immigration benefits, such as those for asylum, green card applications, and citizenship processes, as well as during regular ICE check-in meetings.
Reports and Incidents
Some of these arrests have been occurring during I-130 interviews at USCIS field offices in Miami, Los Angeles, Fresno, St. Louis, and Portland, Oregon. USCIS has also been active on social media, openly discussing its cooperation with ICE to facilitate these arrests. In the last few weeks, USCIS has publicly reported 26 arrests at various field offices across the country. The breakdown of arrests is as follows:
- Tampa Asylum Office: 4 arrests
- Orlando: 1 arrest
- New Orleans: 2 arrests
- Houston: 5 arrests
- Phoenix: 1 arrest
- Indianapolis: 4 arrests
- El Paso: 1 arrest
- Charlotte: 2 arrests
- San Fernando: 1 arrest
- Kendall (Miami): 1 arrest
- An unspecified office in California: 1 arrest
High-Risk Groups
According to USCIS and other reports, individuals at higher risk of being targeted during these operations include those with prior removal orders, criminal charges, criminal convictions, or warrants. USCIS social media updates further reveal that ICE will also be targeting applicants with any history of confirmed, suspected, or alleged fraud in immigration benefit applications, regardless of how long ago the incidents occurred. Additional targets include individuals with alleged involvement in gangs or criminal groups, and those accused of any criminal activity, even if no charges were filed.
Policy Changes and Alerts
In February, USCIS published a policy memorandum indicating an increase in the issuance of Notices to Appear (NTAs) in more cases, including certain employment-based petitions and naturalization cases. This move is part of USCIS’s efforts, in collaboration with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), to rigorously vet all individuals, even after they have obtained a visa or green card. USCIS warns that those who violate the law risk losing their immigration status.
In conclusion, the rise in ICE detentions at USCIS field offices highlights a significant shift in immigration enforcement tactics, raising concerns about the transparency and fairness of the immigration process. With high-risk groups being increasingly targeted, it is crucial for legal advocates, policymakers, and immigrant communities to remain vigilant and informed. This evolving landscape calls for a balanced approach that ensures both national security and the protection of the rights and dignity of individuals navigating the complex immigration system. If you have any questions, please contact us at cprescott@patellegal.com.