ICE Intensifies Arrests at Immigration Courts: Immigrants Detained After Case Dismissals

ICE Arrests at Immigration Courts Spark Fear and Confusion Across the United States, reports are surfacing of a sharp increase in ICE arrests of immigrants outside immigration courts. The arrests are occurring even as individuals arrive for scheduled hearings, and in some cases, they are being detained just moments after their cases have been dismissed. This unsettling trend has created significant fear and uncertainty among immigrant communities. "Something unusual happened when an asylum-seeker went to a Seattle immigration court hearing," said Sofia Velling, a U.S. immigration attorney. "Out of the blue, Immigration and Customs Enforcement moved to dismiss deportation proceedings against her client. Moments later, ICE agents took her client into custody." The practice appears to be targeting individuals who entered the United States within the last two years. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is using this tactic to bypass standard deportation procedures. Once a case is dismissed, DHS attorneys file last-minute motions to dismiss removal proceedings, allowing for faster deportations under Section 235. "Expedited removal carries no hearing rights before an immigration judge and has limited due process," explains Justine, from the AK Poku Law team. "In the past, ICE was limited in making arrests in sensitive locations like schools and churches, but that policy has been formally cancelled." The AK Poku Law team advises immigrants with upcoming court dates to contact an immigration attorney immediately. Attending court with legal representation is crucial to protect against these tactics and ensure due process. The uncertainty surrounding these arrests underscores the need for legal counsel and community support for immigrants navigating the U.S. legal system.