Fact Check: "ICE's detention of immigrants without criminal records has increased by over 1,400%."
What We Know
The claim that ICE's detention of immigrants without criminal records has increased by over 1,400% is based on recent analyses of immigration enforcement data. According to a CBS News report, ICE detentions of individuals facing only civil immigration charges surged significantly, with a noted increase of over 250% from the first week of May to the first week of June 2023. This spike occurred amid a broader push by the Trump administration to expand immigration enforcement, including a new target of 3,000 arrests daily announced by White House adviser Stephen Miller.
The report indicates that by June 2023, nearly half of the individuals detained by ICE had no criminal record, marking a significant shift in enforcement priorities. The data analyzed by CBS News was sourced from the Department of Homeland Security and released to the Deportation Data Project, which is known for its rigorous collection and publication of immigration data.
Analysis
While the claim of a 1,400% increase may be an exaggeration, the evidence does support a substantial rise in the detention of non-criminal immigrants. The CBS News analysis highlights that from early May to early June, the number of detentions for civil immigration violations increased dramatically, indicating a shift in ICE's operational focus. However, the specific percentage increase of 1,400% is not substantiated by the data presented in the report.
Further corroboration comes from a recent federal data analysis, which reveals that the historic increase in ICE detentions is largely fueled by immigrants without criminal records. This aligns with statements from various officials, including Tom Homan, who indicated that anyone in the country illegally could face removal, regardless of their criminal history.
However, it is essential to critically assess the reliability of the sources. CBS News is generally regarded as a credible news outlet, and their analysis is based on official government data. The Deportation Data Project, which obtained the data through a Freedom of Information Act request, also adds credibility to the findings. Nonetheless, the interpretation of the data and the framing of the increase as "over 1,400%" may require more precise context to avoid misrepresentation.
Conclusion
The claim that ICE's detention of immigrants without criminal records has increased by over 1,400% is Partially True. While there is substantial evidence of a significant rise in the detention of non-criminal immigrants, the specific figure of 1,400% lacks direct support from the data analyzed. The increase in detentions is indeed notable and reflects a shift in enforcement priorities, but the exact percentage should be approached with caution.
