Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has continually evolved its tactics in recent years to adapt to shifting immigration policies, enforcement priorities, and the political climate. Working in the immigration system requires an understanding of these changes for anyone working in the system as well as for advocates and policymakers. Below is an overview of how ICE’s strategies and operations have shifted in recent years.
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Expanded Focus on ALL Undocumented Immigrants
In the past, ICE prioritized those with criminal records or those deemed threats to public safety for deportation. However, for some administrations this focus has broadened to include nearly all undocumented immigrants. This shift has blurred the lines of enforcement priorities, making even those with no criminal history vulnerable to detention and deportation.
Examples of Tactics:
- Increased workplace raids to identify undocumented workers.
- Broader use of “collateral arrests,” where undocumented individuals encountered during operations are detained regardless of their immigration history.
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Increased Use of Technology and Surveillance
ICE increasingly relies on technology to track, monitor, and locate undocumented workers. The use of data-sharing agreements with local and federal agencies has expanded, leading to more comprehensive access to personal information.
Key Developments:
- Use of facial recognition and social media monitoring to track undocumented individuals.
- Partnerships with private companies to access utility records, license plate data, and other personal details.
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Shift in Public and Private Partnerships
ICE’s collaboration with local law enforcement and private organizations has changed over time, has been influenced by “sanctuary city” policies or federal initiatives.
Key Changes:
- The implementation of programs like Secure Communities and 287(g) agreements, which allows the deputization of local law enforcement to act as immigration officers.
- Increased reliance on privately-run detention centers, despite concerns over human rights abuses and lack of oversight.
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Use of Detention as a Deterrent
ICE has ramped up detention efforts, often holding immigrants for prolonged periods while they await immigration proceedings. This has been used as a deterrent for potential migrants, especially those that are crossing the southern border.
Notable Changes:
- There are now higher detention rates for asylum seekers, despite previous policies allowing many to await hearings outside of custody.
- Family separation policies that drew widespread criticism, aimed at discouraging migration.
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Targeting Sensitive Locations
In the past, ICE adhered to policies that would avoid enforcement actions in sensitive locations like schools, hospitals, and places of worship. However, some administrations scaled this practice back, creating fear in communities where some previously felt safe.
Recent Adjustments:
- Advocacy groups have pushed for reinstating and strengthening protections in sensitive locations.
- Renewed emphasis on avoiding enforcement in these areas under new guidelines in 2021.
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Policy-Driven Shifts in Tactics
ICE tactics will shift depending on the administration in power. While one administration may focus on aggressive enforcement, another might emphasize humanitarian approaches, such as prioritizing family reunification and protecting Dreamers (DACA recipients).
Policy-Driven Examples:
- Temporary pauses on deportations during policy reviews.
- Enforcement priority changes, such as focusing on those posing national security threats rather than low-level immigration violations.
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Increased Raids and Sweeps Under Certain Administrations
ICE has carried out highly visible enforcement actions designed to deter migration. Raids in homes, workplaces, and public spaces have been publicized as a warning to undocumented workers.
Impact:
- Creation of fear and mistrust within immigrant communities.
- Advocacy groups have stepped up efforts to educate immigrants about their rights during raids.
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Changes in Asylum and Border Policies
ICE tactics at the border have shifted dramatically, especially in response to increased migration from Central America. Policies like Title 42 and the Remain in Mexico program have changed how ICE processes asylum seekers and manages border enforcement.
Conclusion
ICE’s evolving tactics highlight the need for the agency to adapt to political priorities and policy changes. While some shifts emphasize aggressive enforcement, others reflect attempts to balance security with humanitarian considerations. For immigrants and advocates, staying informed about these changes is a key to working in the system and protecting individual rights.
The Immigration Law Offices of Hadley Bajramovic have been helping immigrants to the United States since 2009. Hadley Bajramovic is an established leader in the field of immigration law serving the local and international immigrant community. She has been recognized for her work by notable and respected elected officials including United States Congressmen Mark Takano and Pete Aguilar. She also serves on immigration advisory boards for both Congressman Takano and Congressman Aguilar.
For more information about how the Immigration Law Offices of Hadley Bajramovic can help you call (951) 588-9838 or to schedule a booking CLICK HERE!
