Mass ICE Arrests Surge — What Immigrants Need to Know Now

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has significantly ramped up arrests in recent weeks, detaining thousands of immigrants nationwide in a short span of time. Unlike prior enforcement waves that prioritized individuals with serious criminal records, this operation includes those with no criminal background — many of whom were picked up at immigration check-ins, court appearances, or even workplaces.

This escalation has spread fear among immigrant communities, as even those with pending green card applications, asylum claims, or legal relief options are now at risk of sudden detention.

Why are ICE Mass Arrests Happening?

The mass arrests appear to be part of a broader quota-driven approach that favors high numbers over careful case assessment. Officers are being deployed to courthouses and ICE appointments, where many individuals voluntarily report or attend legal proceedings in good faith.

What’s most concerning is the detainment of people with:

• Final orders of removal, often issued in absentia

• Pending adjustment of status

• Active humanitarian relief applications

In these cases, detention may violate principles of due process and fairness, especially when individuals are actively pursuing legal remedies.

What It Means for Immigrants

• Final order ≠ no options: A past order doesn’t mean your case is over. Motions to Reopen can breathe life back into your claim.

• Pending applications offer leverage: If you're applying for a green card, asylum, TPS, or cancellation of removal, that is a valid reason to fight detention or removal.

• ICE check-ins and court dates are now high-risk: These routine appearances can become entry points into detention.

  
  

Shan Potts Law Offices Perspective

At Shan Potts Law Offices, we believe mass arrests should be met with proactive legal action, not panic. We’re actively helping clients prepare strong Motions to Reopen and crafting airtight removal defense strategies.

Strategies for Motions to Reopen (MTR)

1. In absentia order? File now – If you missed a hearing due to lack of notice or exceptional circumstances, you can ask the court to reopen your case.

2. New relief available? Reopen it – If you now qualify for a green card, asylum, or other form of relief that wasn’t available before, it’s grounds to file.

3. File with a stay of removal – A well-prepared MTR with a stay request can pause deportation while your case is reviewed.

   
   

Strategies for Removal Defense

1. Bond hearings – Push for a custody redetermination so you can be released while your case proceeds.

2. Equity letters and evidence – Present proof of U.S. citizen children, family hardship, community ties, or long residence to argue for relief.

3. Alternative relief options – Asylum, withholding, CAT protection, VAWA, and cancellation of removal are all possible routes — even if you have a removal order.

4. Legal representation at check-ins and court – Having a lawyer present can prevent ICE overreach and secure procedural protections.

   
   

Next Steps for You

• Review your legal status – Know if you have a removal order and what relief options may apply.

• Gather key documents – Proof of applications, family ties, medical needs, and length of stay can all help your case.

• Act fast – In this climate, delay increases risk. A strong MTR or removal defense strategy can make the difference between deportation and protection.

Shan Potts Law Offices is here to help. Don’t wait for ICE to come to you — take control of your case now. We're ready to fight for your future.

If you, or anyone you know, is detained or is at the risk of detention, contact Shan Potts Law Office NOW!

(Source: Reuters)