ICE Detains Over 32,000 Undocumented Immigrants in Trump's First 50 Days

Since President Donald Trump's inauguration on January 20, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has detained over 32,000 undocumented immigrants, as stated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This number encompasses arrests from ICE's widespread operations, the Criminal Alien Program, and collaborations through the 287(g) agreement, as a high-ranking ICE representative disclosed. During the initial 50 days of Trump's tenure, the agency rounded up more than 14,000 individuals with criminal convictions, nearly 9,800 facing criminal charges, 1,155 suspected gang affiliates, and 44 international fugitives. Yet, an ICE official during a press briefing on Wednesday referred to an additional 8,718 detainees as "immigration violators."

Despite inquiries regarding the specifics of detention space and deportation numbers, ICE officials refrained from offering new data. They did, however, admit to releasing some detainees because of court orders, health issues, or for reasons of compassion. It was also mentioned that ICE's detention facilities are currently operating at full capacity, housing around 47,000 individuals. In an effort to accommodate more detainees, ICE is seeking cooperation with the U.S. Marshals Service and the Federal Bureau of Prisons. The agency is also appealing to Congress for extra funds to support its expanding operational needs.