Fact Check: "The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency has recorded in-custody deaths."
What We Know
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency has indeed recorded in-custody deaths. A recent study covering the period from Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 to FY 2023 reported a total of 12 deaths in ICE detention facilities during this timeframe, which is a decrease compared to 38 deaths recorded from FY 2018 to FY 2020 (Buchanan et al.). This study utilized data extracted from death reports published by ICE, which are mandated by the 2018 Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Appropriations Bill to be publicly reported within specific timeframes (ICE Detainee Death Reporting).
The causes of these deaths varied, with some attributed to medical conditions and others to suicide. Notably, the study indicated that COVID-19 was a contributing factor in some of the medical deaths reported during this period (Buchanan et al.).
Analysis
The claim that ICE has recorded in-custody deaths is supported by multiple credible sources. The study conducted by Buchanan et al. provides a comprehensive analysis of deaths in ICE custody, utilizing publicly available death reports and cross-referencing them with independent media and advocacy organizations (Buchanan et al.). The methodology employed in this study is consistent with prior research, ensuring a reliable assessment of mortality rates and causes of death among detainees.
Additionally, the DHS Office of Inspector General (OIG) has also reported on deaths in custody, confirming that ICE is required to report these incidents and has been doing so in a timely manner (DHS OIG). This aligns with the legal framework established by the DHS appropriations bill, which mandates transparency regarding in-custody deaths.
While the data indicates a decrease in the number of deaths in recent years, it is essential to note that the reported figures may still underestimate the total number of deaths associated with ICE detention, particularly for individuals who were released shortly before their deaths (Buchanan et al.). This highlights the need for ongoing scrutiny and monitoring of mortality outcomes for individuals released from ICE custody.
Conclusion
The verdict for the claim that "The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency has recorded in-custody deaths" is True. The evidence from multiple credible sources confirms that ICE has documented in-custody deaths and has been transparent about these incidents as required by law. The recent data shows a decrease in the number of deaths, but it also suggests that the total number of deaths related to ICE detention may be higher than reported.
Sources
- Deaths in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) ... (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11007418/)
- Detainee Death Reporting (https://www.ice.gov/detain/detainee-death-reporting)
- ICE and CBP Deaths in Custody during FY 2021 - DHS OIG (https://www.oig.dhs.gov/sites/default/files/assets/2023-02/OIG-23-12-Feb23.pdf)
- Deaths at Adult Detention Centers (https://www.aila.org/library/deaths-at-adult-detention-centers)
