Fact Check: "Over 40% of ICE detainees have no criminal record."
What We Know
The claim that "over 40% of ICE detainees have no criminal record" aligns with various statistics regarding the population held in detention by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). According to a report by the Cato Institute, approximately 65% of individuals taken by ICE had no criminal convictions. This statistic suggests that a significant portion of detainees are not involved in criminal activities. Furthermore, a report from TRAC Immigration states that as of June 15, 2025, 71.7% of those held in ICE detention had no criminal record, indicating that the claim is indeed supported by data.
Analysis
The statistics provided by the Cato Institute and TRAC Immigration are critical in evaluating the claim. The Cato Institute's report notes that 65% of individuals taken into custody by ICE had no convictions, which is a strong indicator that a substantial number of detainees are not criminal offenders. However, it is important to note that the phrase "no criminal record" can vary in interpretation—some individuals may have minor offenses that do not constitute serious criminal behavior.
TRAC Immigration's report further substantiates the claim by providing a specific percentage of 71.7% of detainees without any criminal record. This data is more recent and provides a clearer picture of the current state of ICE detentions. Both sources are credible, with Cato Institute being a well-known think tank that focuses on public policy issues, and TRAC being a reputable organization that provides data on immigration enforcement.
However, it is essential to consider the context of these statistics. The term "detainees" encompasses a broad range of individuals, including those who may be in the process of seeking asylum or those who have overstayed their visas, which may not necessarily reflect criminal behavior.
Conclusion
Needs Research: While the claim that "over 40% of ICE detainees have no criminal record" is supported by credible data, the exact percentage varies depending on the source. The Cato Institute reports 65%, while TRAC Immigration provides a higher figure of 71.7%. The nuances in the definitions of "criminal record" and the context of detainees' situations require further research to fully understand the implications of these statistics.
