Detention of Military Families Grows Under Trump Immigration Policy

An Associated Press investigation found that more than 50 parents and spouses of active-duty U.S. troops have been detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) since President Donald Trump took office, with at least six already deported. At least eight immediate family members remain in federal immigration custody. The detentions have occurred while families were seeking parole-in-place or adjusting status, sometimes during routine immigration appointments.

The Independent

For decades, a bipartisan consensus shielded military families from removal, and the “military parole-in-place” program—created under President George W. Bush and codified by President Barack Obama—allowed spouses, children and parents of service members to obtain legal status without leaving the United States.

The Independent

Service members report severe personal and professional disruption. Army Sgt. Hedar Leonel Turcios Juarez said his focus on his career suffered while his wife was detained in front of their six-year-old daughter. Tech. Sgt. Wendy Gbeve described the experience as “the most frustrating, helpless feeling.” Staff Sgt. Alexis Jaramillo, caring for a five-year-old stepson after his Brazilian wife’s detention, called the situation “overwhelming.” Analysts warn that such family stress can delay deployments, force soldiers onto administrative leave, and undermine unit cohesion.

The Independent

Former ICE deputy chief counsel Dan Gividen, who served from 2016-2019, said, “We would not place them into removal proceedings, period. That’s insane.” Retired lieutenant colonel and immigration attorney Margaret Stock called the current practice “outrageous,” adding that previous administrations typically canceled removal orders to keep troops focused. Even some Republican lawmakers, such as Rep.

The Independent

• “How can I even focus on my military career because I have to worry about how my wife is doing?” — Army Sgt. Hedar Leonel

The Independent

• “It’s the most frustrating, helpless feeling,” — Tech. Sgt. Wendy Gbeve

The Independent

• “It is really overwhelming because I need to take care of my kid by myself. No one is here to help me out,” — Staff Sgt. Alexis Jaramillo

The Independent

• “We would not place them into removal proceedings, period. That’s insane,” — Dan Gividen

The Independent

• “The fact that they’re doing it now is just outrageous.” — Margaret Stock, an immigration attorney and retired lieutenant colonel

The Independent