Fact Check: ICE detains 1,271% more people with no criminal involvement than ever before.

Fact Check: "ICE detains 1,271% more people with no criminal involvement than ever before."

What We Know

Recent data from the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency indicates a significant increase in the number of detainees without any criminal history. As of mid-June 2025, ICE reported that over 11,700 individuals in immigration detention had no prior criminal charges or convictions. This figure represents a staggering increase of 1,271% compared to the number of similar detainees before Donald Trump's second term began in January 2025 (The Guardian).

The narrative surrounding ICE's operations has often emphasized the targeting of "criminal aliens," yet the data suggests that a substantial portion of those detained are not criminals. In fact, nearly 71.7% of individuals held in ICE detention as of June 15, 2025, had no criminal record (TRAC Reports). This trend contradicts the claims made by officials that ICE prioritizes the arrest of individuals with serious criminal backgrounds.

Analysis

The claim that ICE detains 1,271% more individuals with no criminal involvement is supported by credible data from ICE itself and corroborated by independent analyses. The source from The Guardian provides a detailed account of the statistics, highlighting the increase in detentions of non-criminal individuals and the discrepancy between official statements and actual practices. The article cites specific figures and trends, making it a reliable source for understanding the current state of ICE detentions.

Moreover, the data from ICE's own statistics (ICE Statistics) aligns with the findings reported by The Guardian, further reinforcing the validity of the claim. The increase in detentions is not merely anecdotal but is backed by substantial statistical evidence.

However, it is important to consider the potential biases in the reporting. The Guardian, while generally regarded as a reputable news source, has a progressive editorial stance, which may influence how the information is presented. Nonetheless, the data itself comes from official government reports, which adds a layer of credibility to the claims being made.

Additionally, a report from CBS News indicates that ICE is currently holding a record number of detainees, with nearly half lacking any criminal record (CBS News). This further substantiates the claim and highlights the ongoing trend of detaining individuals without criminal involvement.

Conclusion

The claim that "ICE detains 1,271% more people with no criminal involvement than ever before" is True. The evidence from multiple credible sources, including government statistics and independent analyses, confirms that there has been a dramatic increase in the detention of individuals without criminal records. This trend raises important questions about ICE's enforcement priorities and the implications for immigration policy.

Fact Check: ICE detains 1,271% more people with no criminal involvement than ever before.