BACKGROUND
ICE was developed as part of the DHS when it was formed after 9/11. Law enforcement agencies can now share data as described in the Patriot Act. ICE and BP are looking for people who have overstayed their visa, crossed the border between ports of entry, or committed any kind of crime or misdemeanor including drugs. Someone who is caught is usually sent to detention before "removal proceedings" (being deported).
ICE often outsources the administration of Detention Centers to private for-profit companies which results in shortcuts particularly in health care. A few people held in these detention centers have sued for better conditions, especially during COVID.
RELEVANT LWV POSITION
The League supports improved technology to facilitate employer verification of employee status; verification documents such as status cards and work permits with secure identifiers; improved technology for sharing information among federal agencies; more effective tracking of individuals who enter the United States; and increased personnel at borders.
TALKING POINTS
- Developed after 9/11
- Work along all borders and inland 100 miles from the border
- Largest police force in the U.S.
- Looking for people who have committed a crime including drugs or are in the U.S. illegally
- Detention Centers are like prisons
- Inhumane treatment by both CBP and ICE agents
- Many courts are held inside detention centers