Recent news shows that immigration officers are arresting people in downtown San Diego. Some of them are asylum seekers. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers have taken them into custody right after their court hearings.
One example is an Afghan interpreter who helped U.S. troops. He came to the U.S. legally and followed all the rules. Even though he has no criminal record, officers arrested him after his first court visit. These arrests are not isolated incidents. They are part of a new enforcement strategy that raises legal and human rights concerns. If you are feeling anxious or uncertain, know that you are not alone. There are legal protections and people ready to help.
Why this matters
These arrests are part of a broader nationwide effort to increase deportation quotas. San Diego has become one of the main target areas. ICE agents are showing up at local restaurants, workplaces and even homes. Many fear that no space is safe, especially for those with pending immigration cases.
Legal concerns
Arresting people right after court proceedings undermines due process. It may also stop others from attending their hearings. These tactics can disrupt asylum applications and delay the processing of Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs). They also put lawful immigrants at risk—even when they are following court orders.
What you can do
If you or someone you know has an open immigration case in San Diego, do not wait. Consider seeking professional legal guidance. An experienced immigration attorney can:
- Protect your rights during and after court appearances
- File emergency motions to prevent detention or removal
- Help you understand your legal options and what to do next
Having the proper legal support can keep your case on track. Without it, you could be taken into custody when you least expect it.
Do not wait before it is too late
Immigration enforcement is changing fast, and the risks are real. Without an attorney, you can lose your opportunity to stay in the U.S.—even when you have done everything right. Do not wait. Consider consulting an immigration attorney now to protect your rights and your future.