ICE Arrests Immigrants Outside Phoenix, New York Courts

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents have recently detained individuals outside immigration courts in Phoenix and other U.S. cities, sparking concern and criticism from elected officials and immigrant advocates. The arrests, which reportedly targeted people whose cases had just been dismissed—often after they appeared for scheduled hearings or sought asylum—follow a shift in ICE tactics aimed at expediting deportations. Many of those detained had entered the U.S. via the CBP One application and were unaware they would face arrest upon leaving court, raising fears of family separation and lack of due process. ICE has justified the operations as necessary for public safety and efficient enforcement of immigration law, stating that such courthouse arrests are safer for both agents and the public. Community members and some Democrats have condemned the actions, calling them 'reprehensible' and expressing concern for the safety and rights of immigrants seeking legal recourse. Reports indicate that similar operations are occurring in multiple states as part of a broader federal effort to increase deportations through expedited removals.