Fear of Arrest Causes Soaring Number of Missed Immigration Hearings in Kansas

Kansas Sees Rise in Missed Immigration Hearings Amid Fear of Arrest Fear of arrest is causing a significant rise in missed immigration hearings in Kansas, according to a recent NPR article and a video by immigration lawyer McBean Immigration Law. The video highlights several cases where immigrants, including families with young children, were arrested during routine ICE check-ins, leading to missed hearings and potentially, deportation. "A child as young as three years old was arrested by ICE in San Francisco," states McBean Immigration Law in the video. This fear is not limited to San Francisco; similar incidents have been reported in Kansas City. The attorney emphasizes the difficulty of reopening cases after an in absentia removal order has been issued. The video also notes that some immigrants are avoiding court altogether, resulting in a drop in court attendance and an increase in removal orders issued in their absence. The situation underscores the challenges faced by immigrants navigating the legal system while fearing arrest. McBean Immigration Law offers advice, suggesting that individuals seek legal counsel to file a motion to appear via Webex, avoiding in-person court appearances.