Story perspectives

ICE Non-Criminal Detainees Surge 2,000% Since 2017

11/27/2025

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Summary

Story summary

As of November 16, 2025, ICE held 65,135 detainees, including 30,986 (48%) with no criminal charges, up more than 2,000% since January 2017.
The rise in non-criminal detainees contrasts with President Donald Trump’s administration's focus on deporting serious offenders.
DHS says about 70% of arrests involve charges, but details supporting this figure are not provided.
Some non-criminal detainees may have undisclosed warrants or foreign histories, but no data confirm this.

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Story summary

As of November 16, 2025, ICE held 65,135 detainees, including 30,986 (48%) with no criminal charges, up more than 2,000% since January 2017.
The rise in non-criminal detainees contrasts with President Donald Trump’s administration's focus on deporting serious offenders.
DHS says about 70% of arrests involve charges, but details supporting this figure are not provided.
Some non-criminal detainees may have undisclosed warrants or foreign histories, but no data confirm this.