Fact Check: Less than 6% of ICE arrests involve violent offenders
What We Know
The claim that "less than 6% of ICE arrests involve violent offenders" is supported by various sources that analyze the demographics of individuals arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). According to a report by CNN, internal government documents reveal that in fiscal year 2025, more than 75% of individuals booked into ICE custody had no criminal convictions other than immigration or traffic-related offenses. Furthermore, less than 10% of those arrested were convicted of serious crimes such as murder, assault, robbery, or rape. This aligns with findings from the Cato Institute, which states that over 93% of individuals taken into ICE custody had no convictions for violent offenses.
The data indicates that the majority of immigrants detained by ICE do not have a significant criminal history. This suggests that the narrative surrounding ICE arrests often emphasizes violent offenders, while the reality reflects a broader range of non-violent offenses or no criminal history at all.
Analysis
While the claim that "less than 6% of ICE arrests involve violent offenders" is partially supported by the data, it is important to critically assess the context and reliability of the sources. The CNN report is based on internal ICE data, which provides a comprehensive view of the individuals arrested. This source is credible as it relies on official records, although it may be subject to interpretation based on the framing of the data.
On the other hand, the Cato Institute also provides statistics that reinforce the claim, indicating that 65% of those taken into custody had no convictions at all, and 93% had no violent convictions. However, it is essential to note that the Cato Institute has a libertarian perspective, which may influence its interpretation of immigration enforcement policies.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has countered these claims by asserting that ICE focuses on "the worst of the worst," including gang members and violent offenders, as stated by DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. However, the lack of clarity regarding the nature of the convictions or pending charges mentioned by McLaughlin raises questions about the accuracy of the DHS's portrayal of ICE's focus on violent offenders.
Overall, while the claim is supported by credible data, the framing of the statistics can vary significantly depending on the source, and the narrative surrounding ICE arrests often emphasizes violent offenders disproportionately.
Conclusion
Verdict: Partially True
The claim that "less than 6% of ICE arrests involve violent offenders" is partially true based on available data. While the statistics indicate that a small percentage of those arrested by ICE are violent offenders, the broader context of the arrests includes a significant number of individuals with no criminal history or minor offenses. The framing of the data can lead to different interpretations, making it essential to approach the claim with a nuanced understanding of the statistics and their implications.
Sources
- ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Statistics
- ICYMI: ICE Agents Now Face a 500% Increase in Assaults Against Them
- Largest joint immigration operation in Florida history leads to ... - ICE
- Criminal Alien Statistics
- Less than 10% of immigrants taken into ICE custody in recent ... - CNN
- Sea level rise is a global threat – here’s why | World Economic Forum
- 65% of People Taken by ICE Had No Convictions, 93% No Violent ...
- 65 Percent of People Taken by ICE Had No Convictions ...
