ICE and CBP Reach Deadliest Peak in Decades
NEWS & RESEARCH
In 2025, 32 people died in federal custody—the highest toll in over 20 years. During this period, ICE and CBP detained 6,200 children. As of February 2026, agents have shot 18 people, resulting in six deaths, including Alex Pretti and Renee Good. Additionally, The Trace documented 43 incidents of agents holding bystanders and protesters at gunpoint.
SOURCES: The Guardian | The Trace
ANALYSIS & OPINION
Advocates and former officials warned NPR that reduced oversight and increased detention would lead to more fatalities. ProPublica reported that national security experts view the rise of masked officers as the emergence of an "unaccountable national police force." Following the death of Alex Pretti, The Washington Post labeled the administration's deportation campaign a "moral and political failure," while The New York Times accused DHS of "lying in defiance of obvious truths."
SOURCES: NPR | ProPublica | Editorial: Washington Post | Editorial: New York Times
HOW TO FIX IT
Federal action:
Pass the DHS Use of Force Transparency Act, which requires that the administration provide Congress with information regarding DHS’s use of force
Defend Oversight: Support surprise inspections of detention centers and litigate against attempts to block them.
End Immunity: Pass the Qualified Immunity Abolition Act and the Bivens Act to allow victims to sue federal agents for civil rights violations.
Reform Force: Pass the Stop Excessive Force in Immigration Act to mandate transparency and strict use-of-force standards.
Legal Challenges: Support litigation against mass detention and the unauthorized deployment of agents in states.
State action:
Sever Ties: Terminate all cooperation agreements with ICE and DHS.
Protect Sanctuaries: Limit federal access to schools, hospitals, courts, and religious institutions.
Legislation:H.R.7046 - Qualified Immunity Abolition Act of 2026 | H.R.6091 - Bivens Act of 2025 | S.3683 - Stop Excessive Force in Immigration Act of 2026 | H.R.7894 - DHS Use of Force Transparency Act of 2026
