Amid an ongoing crackdown on undocumented immigrants, data reveals that more than half of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detainees have no criminal record.
Detainee Numbers Reach Highest Since 2019
According to NBC News, 1,800 out of 4,422 individuals detained by ICE in the first two weeks of February had no prior criminal history. This accounts for about 41% of new detainees. Meanwhile, ICE’s total detainee population has reached its highest level since 2019.
Data from the Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse (TRAC) at Syracuse University shows that as of February 23, ICE held 43,759 individuals in detention. Among them, 52.1%—or 22,797 people—had no criminal record. This contradicts ICE’s claims that enforcement focuses on serious offenders.
Arrests in El Monte Spark Outrage
On February 24, ICE agents arrested Yolanda Perez and her son, Jonathan Tejeda-Perez, in El Monte, California. According to Fox 11 News, Tejeda-Perez had a prior arrest for possession of a controlled substance and vehicle theft. However, his mother had no criminal history.
The arrests triggered backlash online and drew criticism from local officials. Rep. Gilbert Ray Cisneros Jr. (D-31st District) condemned the incident, stating that many immigrants contribute to their communities and local economies.
Legal Experts Advise Caution
Attorneys recommend that individuals encountering ICE take the following steps:
- Request to see a warrant for verification.
- Exercise their right to remain silent and ask for a lawyer.
- Avoid signing any ICE documents without legal counsel.
Additionally, legal experts warn against traveling near border areas and engaging in minor violations, such as driving under the influence.
ICE Expands Target List
Meanwhile, ICE has ordered agents to focus on about 8 million individuals eligible for expedited removal. This includes those who have overstayed their visas. Records indicate that in the 2023-2024 fiscal year, 3,621 Koreans remained in the U.S. beyond their visa limits.
Resources for Undocumented Immigrants
The National Korean American Service & Education Consortium (NAKASEC) urges undocumented individuals to use the “Know Your Rights 4 Immigrants” app. This tool provides legal guidance and emergency contacts. The organization also operates a 24-hour hotline at 844-500-3222.
Related Articles:
- ICE intensifies crackdown on undocumented immigrants in LA
- ICE plans large-scale detention facility near San Francisco for undocumented immigrants
BY HYOUNGJAE KIM [kim.ian@koreadaily.com]
