DHS Refutes Claims of New ICE Arrest Policy Targeting Only Criminal Migrants
The Department of Homeland Security said reports that ICE was told to stop arresting undocumented migrants without criminal charges are false, reaffirming its intent to detain any illegal entrant.
Media reports suggested that Immigration and Customs Enforcement had received new guidance to limit arrests to undocumented migrants who already face criminal charges. The Department of Homeland Security responded on X, labeling the allegation as false and stating that no one is excluded from enforcement actions. According to the department, ICE will persist in apprehending and deporting any illegal alien encountered, regardless of criminal history.
It also announced a nationwide public-safety surge in sanctuary cities, targeting individuals described as murderers, rapists, child predators and gang affiliates who have been released by local officials. The statement underscores the agency’s commitment to protecting American citizens through aggressive enforcement. The story is ongoing and will be updated as more information becomes available.
Why it matters
It clarifies the federal government's stance on immigration enforcement amid debate over sanctuary policies.
How this story developed
- Aug 13 San Antonio immigrants live in constant fear as ICE arrests surge
- Aug 18 ICE released a draft plan to provide liability insurance to local officers making immigration arrests.
- Aug 22 San Diego County board approved a narrow vote to halt ICE and CBP firearms training at county‑owned ranges.
- Aug 23 An investigation found that 71% of detainee grievances were dismissed and only 8% were resolved in detainees’ favor.
- Aug 25 ICE began using a $45 billion allocation to shift legal ownership of detention centers to the federal government.
- Sep 1 ICE placed a mother and her adult daughter into custody after a hospital intake following a car crash in Florida.
- Sep 1 ICE carried out a raid in Memphis that arrested more than 100 people, the largest raid in the city’s history.
- Sep 11 A judge dismissed the deportation case against the Andhra Pradesh woman, yet ICE continued to require her reporting.
- Sep 17 ICE agent Christian Castro turned himself in to Minnesota authorities on a warrant for assault after shooting a Venezuelan man, and faces both state and federal charges.
- Sep 18 Castro entered a not‑guilty plea to the federal false‑statement charges.
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