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ICE arrests surge nationwide but deportations remain flat, data shows

Sep 14, 2026

Immigration arrests in the U.S. have surged in recent months, reaching nearly 51,000 in August, driven by increased local law enforcement cooperation with ICE, expanded use of technology, and enhanced data sharing between federal agencies. Despite the record arrest numbers, preliminary government data reviewed by Reuters shows deportations held mostly steady at around 1,200 per day, similar to rates in May when there were about 19,000 fewer arrests. Officials attributed the gap to a growing share of those arrested having no criminal conviction or deportation order, many with pending asylum claims that prevent immediate removal, as well as limited deportation flights and restrictions set by receiving countries.

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