As Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) continues to increase the number of arrests and deportations of undocumented immigrants, more of these activities are targeting individuals whose only crimes involved their unlawful presence in the U.S. Many of these people have lived and worked in this country for years without incident. The aggressive enforcement actions of ICE have split up families and have disrupted the lives of many otherwise law-abiding citizens who came to this country in search of a better life for themselves and their families.

Arrests of Noncriminals Rose by 66 Percent in 2018

In the nine-month period from January to September 2018, the number of undocumented immigrants arrested and detained by ICE increased by 66 percent over the same period in 2017. This contrasts sharply with the arrests of criminals on immigration charges, which rose by a modest two percent over the same time frame.

Increased Deportations Across the Board

While the increase in detentions is significant, deportations have increased even more dramatically. In 2018, immigrants with criminal convictions were deported at a rate 13 percent greater than during the same period in 2017. Deportations of those with no criminal convictions, however, increased by 174 percent in the first nine months of 2018 over 2017. This reflects a more general approach to enforcement on the part of ICE and represents a shift in priorities away from public safety and toward wholesale deportation of immigrants to this country.

The Value of a Qualified Orlando Immigration Lawyer

For undocumented immigrants living and working in the U.S., finding the right solutions for their legal status can be challenging. Working with an experienced Orlando immigration lawyer can be a good first step toward achieving green card status and protecting yourself against adverse actions by ICE and other federal agencies.

If you need an experienced and knowledgeable Orlando immigration lawyer, Pozo Goldstein can provide you with expert guidance and representation for your legal needs. We work with families just like yours to resolve issues with ICE and to protect your ability to remain in the U.S. legally. Our team includes a former judge and two former immigration prosecutors, which ensures that we have the relevant experience needed to take on your case and to provide you with the best representation possible. Call us today at 407-956-4359 to set up a free in-office consultation with our team of attorneys. We look forward to the chance to work with you.