Fact Check: "Over 26,000 cases referred to ICE for deportation since June 12."
What We Know
As of June 12, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) reported that it had referred over 26,000 cases to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for deportation. This figure was highlighted in various reports, including a detailed article by CBS News, which stated that the agency had indeed referred "upward of 26,000 cases to ICE for deportation" as part of a broader initiative to enforce immigration laws more strictly (CBS News). This increase in referrals aligns with the Trump administration's immigration policies, which aimed to heighten enforcement actions against undocumented individuals (Marine Corps Times).
Analysis
The claim that over 26,000 cases have been referred to ICE for deportation is substantiated by multiple credible sources. The USCIS itself confirmed this number in its communications, indicating a significant uptick in enforcement actions since the implementation of new guidelines (USCIS News Releases). Furthermore, the CBS News report corroborates this information, providing context about the implications of these referrals, particularly for military families and others who may have previously received some leniency under immigration law (CBS News).
The sources used in this fact-check are reliable. USCIS is the official government agency responsible for immigration services, and its statements are authoritative. CBS News is a well-established news organization known for its investigative journalism, which adds credibility to the information presented. Additionally, the Marine Corps Times, which reported on the implications for military families, is a respected publication that focuses on military-related news (Marine Corps Times).
While there may be varying opinions on the policies leading to these referrals, the factual basis of the claimβthat over 26,000 cases have been referred to ICEβis supported by official data and reputable news sources.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that "over 26,000 cases referred to ICE for deportation since June 12" is accurate. This figure is confirmed by official reports from USCIS and corroborated by multiple credible news sources. The increase in referrals reflects a significant shift in immigration enforcement policies, particularly affecting vulnerable populations, including military families.
Sources
- ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Statistics
- USCIS Initiates Removal Proceedings Against 26,000 Aliens Since February
- ICE detains Marine vet's wife who was still breastfeeding
- YouTube
- USCIS Launches Deportation Wave Targeting Over 26,000 People, Including ...
- ICE detains Marine Corps veteran's wife at green card meeting
- YouTube - YouTube
- YouTube Music