ToplineU.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement announced Wednesday that it will no longer detain or deport many victims of crime. This is in response to the Biden administration's narrowing of ICEs mandate and reversing many of President Donald Trump's strict immigration rules.ICE agent badge in Revere, Massachusetts on September 25, 2019. MediaNews Group via Getty ImagesThe Key FactsICE called its new policy a victim-centered approach in enforcement. According to a Wednesday directive, ICE will no longer take action against undocumented immigrant who apply for special visas that are available to victims of abuse or human trafficking, domestic violence and child neglect, among other serious crimes. Agents from immigration will also be expected to search for evidence that victims of crimes were not yet protected and to provide them with information about visa applications as well as guidance for reporting their crimes to the appropriate authorities. ICE instructed its agents to not arrest or deport witnesses or victims in ongoing criminal investigations. This is a move it claimed will help law enforcement by preventing undocumented immigrants from approaching police to report crimes.Important QuoteICEs directive stated that victims who have access to humanitarian protection regardless of immigration status can feel more secure in coming forward. This strengthens the ability to law enforcement agencies (local, state, federal) to investigate and prosecute crime.ContraICE can still act against criminal victims in exceptional circumstances. This includes if a target has been deemed a national security threat or could physical endanger another person.Important BackgroundSince 2000, up to 10,000 U visas have been offered by the federal government to victims of certain crimes. This policy is meant to protect victims and encourage cooperation with police officers. In recent years, the program has seen a rise in applications to well over 100,000. During Trump's tenure, it was reported that ICE was deporting U-visa hopefuls even before their applications had been approved. In 2019, ICE introduced a new policy that allowed agents to initiate removal proceedings against people awaiting U Visas.TangentMany of Trump's harsh and sometimes brutal immigration policies have been reversed by President Joe Biden. Trump instructed ICE that any undocumented immigrant could be deported and arrested. However, the Biden administration requested that ICE focus on those who are a threat to national security or public safety. Biden also restricted the areas ICE can operate in, prohibiting them from arresting people at Covid-19 vaccination sites or in courthouses.
