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Fact check: Legal immigrants have been arrested by ICW

Checked on June 12, 2025

1. Summary of the results

The statement is factually accurate but significantly understated. Multiple sources confirm that ICE has been systematically arresting legal immigrants, particularly during Trump's second term, with arrests occurring across 13 states and 19 cities [1]. These arrests are specifically targeting:

  • Immigrants at immigration courts and USCIS offices, even after case dismissals [2]
  • Legal permanent residents [3]
  • Long-standing residents with no criminal records [4]

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

The original statement omits several crucial contextual elements:

  • These arrests are part of a systematic effort by the Trump administration to expedite deportations, specifically targeting immigrants who entered during the Biden administration [2]
  • The scope is much broader than suggested, affecting immigrants who are actively participating in legal immigration processes, including asylum seekers [2]
  • There have been cases where U.S. citizens were mistakenly detained due to administrative errors [3]
  • This represents a significant policy shift, as "before Mr. Trump took office, someone like Gomes would likely not have been arrested by ICE" [4]

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original statement's brevity obscures the systematic nature of these arrests and their broader implications:

  • It fails to mention that these actions are undermining due process and creating a climate of fear among immigrant communities [1]
  • The statement doesn't acknowledge that even those following legal procedures are being targeted, which could discourage immigrants from engaging with the immigration system
  • The use of "ICW" instead of "ICE" in the original statement is incorrect and could lead to confusion

Those benefiting from this narrative include:

  • The Trump administration, which can claim to be tough on immigration
  • Anti-immigration advocacy groups that support stricter enforcement
  • Private detention facilities that profit from increased arrests and detentions
Want to dive deeper?
What is the difference between ICE and ICW immigration enforcement agencies?
How often does ICE mistakenly arrest legal immigrants and permanent residents?
What legal protections do documented immigrants have against wrongful detention?
Can legal immigrants sue ICE for wrongful arrest and detention?
What should legal immigrants do if they are arrested by immigration enforcement?