Fact Check: "69% of ICE arrests in LA target individuals with no criminal convictions."
What We Know
The claim that "69% of ICE arrests in LA target individuals with no criminal convictions" is a statistic that has circulated in discussions about immigration enforcement. However, the source of this statistic is not clearly defined in the available literature. Reports from various organizations, including the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), have indicated that a significant portion of ICE arrests do involve individuals without criminal convictions. For instance, the ACLU has noted that in certain jurisdictions, a high percentage of individuals arrested by ICE do not have prior criminal records.
Additionally, a report by the Los Angeles Times mentioned that in 2018, a substantial number of individuals detained by ICE in Los Angeles County were indeed found to have no criminal convictions. This aligns with broader trends observed in immigration enforcement practices across the United States, where many arrests target individuals who are not considered a threat to public safety.
Analysis
While the claim appears to be grounded in factual observations regarding ICE's enforcement practices, the specific figure of 69% lacks a direct citation from a credible source. The ACLU and other advocacy groups often provide data on ICE arrests, but the exact percentage can vary depending on the timeframe and specific locality being analyzed. For example, the Los Angeles Times report does not provide a precise percentage but indicates a similar trend.
The reliability of the sources discussing ICE arrests is mixed. Advocacy organizations like the ACLU are generally seen as credible, but they may have a vested interest in highlighting the negative impacts of immigration enforcement. On the other hand, mainstream media outlets like the Los Angeles Times are typically regarded as reliable sources of information, although their reports may also reflect specific editorial perspectives.
Given that the claim lacks a definitive source and the percentage cited may vary based on different studies or reports, it is essential to approach this statistic with caution. The absence of a clear, verifiable source for the 69% figure means that while the underlying trend may be accurate, the specific claim cannot be fully substantiated.
Conclusion
Verdict: Needs Research
The claim that "69% of ICE arrests in LA target individuals with no criminal convictions" requires further investigation to verify its accuracy. While there is evidence suggesting a significant number of ICE arrests involve individuals without criminal records, the specific percentage cited lacks a clear source and may not be universally applicable. More comprehensive data and reliable citations are needed to confirm this statistic definitively.
