HUMSI — Human Security Initiative

Human Impact Project

A living database documenting reported immigration enforcement incidents and their human impact.

170+ U.S. citizens detained by immigration agents during sweeps and raids

Oct 26, 2025

170+ U.S. citizens detained by immigration agents during sweeps and raids

ProPublica documented over 170 cases in the first nine months of 2025 in which U.S. citizens were detained by immigration agents during enforcement operations. Among those detained were nearly 20 children, including two with cancer, and at least three pregnant women. More than 20 citizens reported being held for over a day without ability to contact lawyers or loved ones. About 130 Americans, including a dozen elected officials, were arrested on allegations of interfering with or assaulting officers, with nearly 50 of those cases dismissed or never charged. Citizens detained included those questioned about their citizenship status—almost all Latino—as well as those allegedly interfering with enforcement operations. Multiple detainees reported being subjected to force including being dragged, tackled, beaten, tased, shot, or having their necks kneeled on.

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