The government of Donald Trump approved a measure that expands the rapid deportations of undocumented immigrants in the United States.
This policy, known as "expedited removal," grants Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials greater authority to deport individuals who cannot demonstrate their presence in the country for more than two years.
The White House emphasizes: The priority is dangerous undocumented immigrants
"In the last twenty-four hours, ICE arrested more than 308 serious offenders. Some of them were murderers, rapists. ICE is performing excellently right now in the field and will continue to do so every day," said Tom Homan this Wednesday."
The "border czar" confirmed that, for now, the raids are not aimed at just any type of undocumented immigrant. ICE agents have specific, well-researched targets and will not stop until they find them.
Donald Trump has warned on several occasions that every illegal immigrant in the United States will eventually be deported, one way or another.
Accelerated deportations across the United States
On Tuesday, the approval of expedited deportations was reported, indicating that they will no longer be limited to areas near the border or to those who have recently entered the country.
Now, anyone without documents, anywhere in the United States, could be deported without going through the immigration judicial system, a change that has caused alarm in immigrant communities, including the Cuban community.
What does this measure mean for undocumented individuals in the U.S.?
Previously, expedited removal was only applied to undocumented individuals detained less than 100 miles from a border and who had been in the country for less than two weeks.
Now, the rules have changed dramatically, allowing ICE to deport any immigrant who cannot prove they have been in the country for more than two years.
This means that there will be no need to appear before an immigration judge, a process that could previously extend for years due to the backlog of cases in the courts.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) indicated that this measure aims to "reduce government costs and ensure a quicker deportation of those who do not have the right to remain in the country."
Concern in the migrant community
The new directive also allows ICE to conduct operations in sensitive locations such as hospitals, schools, and churches, creating increased fear among immigrants.
For some Cubans in the United States who have not managed to regularize their immigration status, this policy represents an additional blow in an already complicated context. Arrests could happen at any time and in any place, even in areas considered safe.
Human rights organizations and immigration lawyers have warned about the risks of these measures, pointing out that they could lead to an increase in arbitrary detentions and leave many people without the opportunity to defend their case in court.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Accelerated Deportations of Immigrants in the U.S. under the Trump Administration
What does the measure of expedited deportations imply for undocumented immigrants in the U.S.?
The expedited deportation measure allows the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to quickly deport individuals who cannot prove they have been in the U.S. for more than two years. This means that undocumented individuals can be expelled without going through an immigration trial, increasing the risk of arbitrary detentions.
How does this policy affect undocumented Cubans in the United States?
The policy of accelerated deportations poses a significant risk for Cubans who have not regularized their immigration status. While many Cubans are protected under humanitarian parole and the Cuban Adjustment Act, those who have been in the country for less than a year or who have deportation orders may be at greater risk of being deported.
What rights do immigrants have if ICE shows up at their home?
Immigrants have the right to not open the door or respond to ICE agents if they do not present a signed order from a judge. Even if the agents have a valid order, they must show it under the door or through a window for it to be legally recognized.
What can Cubans with irregular status do to protect themselves from deportation?
It is essential for Cubans in irregular situations to seek legal advice and keep their immigration proceedings up to date. Those with humanitarian parole should plan their status adjustment before their parole period expires to minimize the risks of deportation.
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