ICE breaks record by deporting over a quarter-million immigrants in 2024

In fiscal year 2024, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency reported a significant increase in deportations, reaching 271,484, the highest figure in a decade. This sharp rise corresponds with the end of the 2024 fiscal year on September 30, showcasing a nearly two-fold increase from the previous year's total of 142,000 removals. Notably, nearly 89,000 of those deported had prior criminal charges or convictions, illustrating a focus on public safety in the deportation strategy. Additionally, the report indicated that this record high surpassed the peak number of deportations during Donald Trump's first term, further fueling the debate around immigration policy in the U.S. The increase has been attributed to enhanced enforcement measures and improved diplomatic negotiations to facilitate smoother repatriation processes with various countries, particularly in Mexico and Central America, where most deportees originated. With 82% of deportees apprehended at the southern border, the statistics highlighted the ongoing immigration challenges faced by the Biden administration. As the incoming Trump administration prepares to take office, it has pledged to initiate what it claims will be the largest deportation operation in U.S. history. President-elect Donald Trump and his appointed officials, including Tom Homan, aim to target those undocumented individuals with criminal backgrounds, but the plan extends to all unauthorized immigrants, demonstrating a broad approach to enforcement. According to Homan, there is a necessity for additional resources to facilitate this massive undertaking, including an increase in detention bed capacity and a potential collaboration with the Department of Defense. While Trump’s administration is noted for its hardline immigration stance, the report’s figures indicate a pressing workload for the incoming ICE team, with millions of non-citizens under supervision in the immigration court system. This situation has resulted in a climate of fear and concern within immigrant communities across the nation. Advocacy groups have mobilized efforts to educate immigrants about their rights and to assist those eligible in pursuing paths to legal status before the anticipated enforcement actions take place. The reported 271,484 deportations reflect not only the tangible impacts of current policies but also the need for ongoing discussions regarding immigration reform as the country braces itself for potential mass deportations during the incoming administration's term in office.