ICE Targets Undocumented Immigrants with Criminal Records in Nationwide Arrest Operations

A nationwide effort is afoot by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to target undocumented immigrants with criminal records, like the operation that took place in Coachella this week. ICE agents are emphasizing that these actions are not raids or sweeps but are instead focused on individuals with serious criminal histories and undocumented status.

Alondra Campos reports that according to federal agents, the main goal of these operations is to prioritize the detention of individuals who have criminal records, regardless of when the crime was committed. These operations also include individuals who are incarcerated, as ICE agents confirm their legal status while behind bars.

Immigration attorney Alex Galvez spoke with us to shed more light on the process. He explained that ICE typically focuses on individuals who have had prior interactions with law enforcement, especially those involved in crimes such as domestic violence, petty theft, DUI offenses, drug possession for personal use, and assault. These individuals are often placed in deportation proceedings after being detained.

ICE's detention statistics reveal that in 2024, more than 70,000 undocumented immigrants with criminal convictions were detained, and over 68,000 of them were deported.

After being detained, individuals can request a bond hearing from an immigration judge. Galvez emphasized that detainees should not sign voluntary departure forms and should pursue bond hearings if eligible. The bond hearing, which typically takes place within a couple of weeks, will determine whether the individual is a mandatory detainee or if they are eligible for bond.

Even in cases where someone has a prior deportation order, there may be options to reopen the case if new forms of relief are available. Galvez advised that filing a motion to reopen before deportation could prevent the reinstatement of the order.

Legal experts also pointed out the significant backlog in the U.S. court system, with around 3 million immigration cases, which can cause delays in these proceedings—sometimes lasting years.

As ICE continues its operations, the process for individuals detained in these arrests remains complex, with many still seeking legal options to delay or prevent deportation.