Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) efforts to round up immigrants that they claim entered the country illegally have skyrocketed under President Donald Trump’s administration. Although President Trump was clear in his intention to run the “largest deportation operation in American history” during his campaign, critics have questioned whether these efforts are focusing on violent criminals as he promised. Instead, it appears that the vast majority of individuals ICE agents arrested and placed in detention have no criminal history at all.
A recent report by the BBC notes that even those who support stricter immigration restrictions have found ICE tactics troubling. Whether or not these frustrations will translate to change with how officials handle immigration, it is wise for everyone to have a basic understanding of steps to take if ICE detains a loved one during an immigration round up. The first step is to understand what ICE detention is.
What is ICE detention?
ICE detention occurs when immigration authorities take someone into custody for alleged violations of immigration law. ICE agents typically take detainees to dedicated immigration detention facilities, county jails or private detention centers while their cases move through the immigration court system.
What steps should I take if ICE detains a loved one?
Time is critical when ICE detains a loved one. Taking prompt action can help to better ensure your loved one receives proper legal representation and support. These steps can help to protect your loved one’s legal rights during this difficult situation:
- Attempt to confirm the detention location by calling the ICE detainee locator hotline or using the online locator tool
- Contact an experienced immigration attorney immediately to evaluate the case and explore release options
- Gather important documents including birth certificates, marriage certificates, proof of residence and any immigration paperwork
- Arrange for someone to care for dependents, pets or property the detainee may have left behind
These initial steps lay the groundwork for mounting an effective response to the detention and can provide your loved one peace of mind by knowing that the things that are important to them are cared for while they focus on dealing with the immigration process.
Gain control during this difficult time
Having a loved one detained by ICE is undoubtedly stressful, but you are not powerless. By understanding how detention works and acting quickly to secure legal representation you can help your loved one through this difficult process. Every case is unique and legal strategies are available to help guide your loved one through this process.