Story perspectives

Illinois Counties Detain Immigrants Despite Sanctuary Status

2/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

In Illinois, 17 counties detain immigrants for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) due to loopholes, despite sanctuary status.
A report shows detention numbers are undercounted, totaling 83,400 when including county jail inmates.
The discrepancy reflects the U.S. President Donald Trump's immigration policies.
Immigrants such as Jose and Mary illustrate the human impact, including Jose's deportation after six months.
Advocacy for immigrant rights is challenged by the criminalization of immigration.

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Story summary

In Illinois, 17 counties detain immigrants for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) due to loopholes, despite sanctuary status.
A report shows detention numbers are undercounted, totaling 83,400 when including county jail inmates.
The discrepancy reflects the U.S. President Donald Trump's immigration policies.
Immigrants such as Jose and Mary illustrate the human impact, including Jose's deportation after six months.
Advocacy for immigrant rights is challenged by the criminalization of immigration.