Fact Check: "ICE facilities have reported more in-custody deaths than any other facility nationwide."
What We Know
The claim that "ICE facilities have reported more in-custody deaths than any other facility nationwide" is supported by data indicating a significant number of deaths occurring in ICE detention centers. According to the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), there have been 23 deaths in ICE custody since the start of the Biden administration, with 12 of those occurring within the last year alone. This suggests a troubling trend in mortality rates within these facilities. Furthermore, reports from NPR highlight that there have been nine deaths in ICE detention since January 2025, indicating that this year is on track to be one of the deadliest since 2020 (NPR).
Analysis
While the claim holds some truth, it is essential to contextualize it. The number of deaths reported in ICE facilities is indeed alarming, but the claim lacks specificity regarding comparisons with other types of facilities, such as state prisons or local jails. The AILA report indicates that while ICE facilities have a notable number of deaths, it does not provide a direct comparison to other detention or correctional facilities nationwide.
Moreover, the reliability of the sources is crucial. NPR has a reputation for thorough investigative journalism, and their reports are often backed by firsthand accounts and data from credible organizations (NPR). In contrast, while AILA is a well-respected organization within the immigration advocacy community, their reports may carry an inherent bias towards highlighting issues within ICE due to their advocacy focus.
The context of these deaths is also significant. Many deaths in ICE custody are attributed to inadequate medical care and poor living conditions, as highlighted by various reports (NPR, AILA). This suggests systemic issues within ICE facilities that contribute to higher mortality rates, but it does not definitively establish that they have the highest death rates compared to all other facilities.
Conclusion
The claim that "ICE facilities have reported more in-custody deaths than any other facility nationwide" is Partially True. While there is substantial evidence indicating a high number of deaths in ICE custody, the claim lacks comparative data to definitively state that they surpass all other facilities nationwide. The context of these deaths, including systemic issues within ICE, further complicates the narrative.
