US government admits error for arresting migrants in courts - Migrant Connection
Key Takeaways
- It has been reported that U.S. authorities acknowledged mistakes in arrests of migrants at or near courthouses.
- Arrests by ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) in judicial settings can conflict with DHS "sensitive locations" guidance that generally discourages enforcement at courts.
- The practice risks chilling attendance at immigration and criminal hearings and can lead to in absentia removal orders for people who miss their court dates.
- Affected groups include asylum seekers, people in removal (deportation) proceedings, and individuals attending bond or criminal hearings; legal counsel and advocacy groups urge precautions.
Background
It has been reported that the U.S. government has admitted errors after migrants were arrested in or around courthouses, according to Conexión Migrante. ICE carries out immigration enforcement, but Department of Homeland Security (DHS) policy historically designates courthouses as "sensitive locations" where enforcement actions are discouraged except in limited circumstances. Allegedly, some arrests took place despite those protections or without proper approvals.
Legal and policy context
DHS guidance on sensitive locations aims to prevent enforcement activities that would deter people from accessing essential services, including courts. Exceptions exist — for example, when public safety is at risk or when a supervisory approval is obtained — and ICE has maintained it can act in such cases. For migrants, the stakes are high: missing an immigration hearing can trigger an in absentia removal order (a deportation order issued when a respondent fails to appear), closing off many forms of relief and prolonging legal uncertainty.
Human impact and next steps
For people navigating the immigration system now, the practical effects are immediate. Fear of arrest at courthouses can discourage attendance at master calendar or merits hearings, bond hearings, and criminal court dates, harming chances to pursue asylum, cancellation of removal, or other relief. If you or a loved one is affected, contact your attorney or a local legal aid organization, inform the court of any enforcement incidents, and document what happened. Immigration lawyers and advocates say vigilance and counsel are crucial while policy clarifications and oversight continue.
Source: Original Article