Story perspectives

2nd Circuit Blocks ICE Mandatory Detention, Frees Thousands

4/30/2026

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit unanimously rejected ICE’s mandatory-detention interpretation, halting the policy.
Judges Joseph Bianco, José Cabranes and Allison Nathan said the reading muddies statutory language and would strain overcrowded detention centers.
The ruling could free thousands of immigrants held without bond and upheld the release of Brazilian national Ricardo Aparecido Barbosa da Cunha, who has lived in the United States for over 20 years.

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Story summary

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit unanimously rejected ICE’s mandatory-detention interpretation, halting the policy.
Judges Joseph Bianco, José Cabranes and Allison Nathan said the reading muddies statutory language and would strain overcrowded detention centers.
The ruling could free thousands of immigrants held without bond and upheld the release of Brazilian national Ricardo Aparecido Barbosa da Cunha, who has lived in the United States for over 20 years.