ICE Implements New Mandatory Detention Policy for Immigration Cases

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has implemented a new mandatory detention policy that requires immigrants without legal status to remain in custody until deportation proceedings conclude. According to a July memo from Acting ICE Director Todd M. Lyons, immigrants should be detained for the duration of their removal proceedings, which can extend for months or years due to judicial backlogs. This policy change removes the previous option for immigrants to post bond and have their custody status determined by an immigration judge.