Title: The Sharpest Growth in ICE Detention Population - Immigrants with No Criminal Convictions
The recent surge of immigrants being held by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has raised concerns about the Trump administration's mass deportation campaign, which is said to be the largest in US history. According to data from the Deportation Data Project, at least 56,000 immigrants are currently being held in ICE detention facilities, with approximately half of them not having any criminal convictions on their records. This means that nearly 30,000 people without a criminal background are now facing detainment - the group experiencing the sharpest growth in recent months.
This development contradicts statements made by key White House figures such as Tom Homan and Stephen Miller who have repeatedly claimed that the administration is targeting only "the worst of the worst," focusing on individuals with serious criminal records or those involved in violent crimes. However, data collected by UCLA Professor Graeme Blair suggests otherwise; it shows that a significant number of detainees do not fit this description and are instead being arrested for reasons unrelated to their criminal history (or lack thereof).
The increase in arrests without any prior convictions can be traced back to the first few months of President Trump's administration when the number of detentions remained relatively stable compared to previous administrations. However, recent weeks have seen a push towards more aggressive enforcement actions, with ICE setting a goal of 3,000 arrests per day. This has led to an alarming rise in the number of people without criminal records being held in detention centers across the country.
In response to these findings, NPR reached out to the Trump administration for comment but received no reply. At a recent press conference, both President Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi reiterated their commitment to focusing on individuals who pose a threat to national security or public safety. However, critics argue that this stance contradicts the reality of what is happening at the border and within ICE detention facilities.
The significance of these findings cannot be overstated. They highlight the need for greater transparency and accountability in immigration enforcement policies and practices. As we move forward, it will be crucial to closely monitor how these trends evolve under different administrations and political climates. Only then can we hope to create a fairer and more just system that respects human rights while ensuring national security.
Source: [Original Article](https://www.npr.org/2025/07/03/nx-s1-5456246/immigrants-no-criminal-convictions-growth-ice-detention-population) #immigrants
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