What Can ICE Detain People For?

Immigrations and Customs Enforcement or ICE as they are most often known, is the main investigative arm of the Department of Homeland Security. Most people believe that their main job is to find people who are violating immigration laws, and to enforce said laws, however this is not the case. The mandate for this arm of the government goes far beyond finding and arresting or deporting immigrants who might have overstayed their visa or entered the country illegally.

With their mandate being the protection of national security and public safety, they are responsible for the protection of border control, customs, trade and immigration. ICE is responsible for enforcing Federal laws, both civilly and criminally. As such, they can investigate everything from bank fraud to immigration issues, trade infringements to employment matters. Ice has the broadest investigative powers of any of the government agencies in the United States of America.

ICE’s particular duties include identifying vulnerabilities in the nation’s border, economic, infrastructure and transportation security, then investigating and dismantling these weaknesses, making sure that they strengthen each area and assure its future integrity. 

In addition to immigration issues, what other things can ICE investigate and detain people for?

• Bank Fraud
• Human Rights Violations
• Smuggling
• Art Theft
• Drugs and Arms Trafficking
• Gang Investigations
• Financial Crimes such as money laundering
• Terrorism
• Computer Crimes
• Intellectual Property Rights Violations

As you can see, the investigative and arrest capabilities of ICE are broad and are meant to be of benefit to the United States and its inhabitants. However, the most visible branch is of course the agents that deal with the immigration issues. Should you find yourself detained by ICE for immigrations violations, it is certain to be a confusing and trying time not only for yourself but your family as well. When you are detained by ICE, there are times that an immigration bond will be allowed in your case. If this happens in your case it is important that you understand the difference between a criminal bond and an immigration bond.

If you are detained by ICE for immigration violations, it is also important to note that you do have certain rights, even as an illegal immigrant. You may always speak with an attorney, who will help you understand your rights and the charges that are being brought against you. If you do not know of a reputable attorney, it is often best to ask for word of mouth referrals from friends or family, or alternatively ask that an attorney be provided for you if you are unable to hire one through your own means.