The Department of Homeland Security’s Inspector General announced on Thursday the initiation of two reviews concerning Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and its treatment of detained migrants. One review will investigate the rising number of deaths among ICE detainees, while the other will assess whether ICE facilities adhere to appropriate use of force protocols during detainee interactions. The impetus for these reviews stems from an alarming increase in detainee deaths, including a recent homicide at a Texas facility currently under FBI investigation. As of this week, there have been 20 detainee deaths in ICE custody in 2026, a significant rise compared to 33 in all of 2025. In light of these developments, Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin defended the agency’s record, disputing claims of a high death rate in ICE detention compared to state penitentiaries. The reviews will cover systemic factors contributing to deaths from October 2021 through March 2026.
Why It Matters
The scrutiny of ICE practices comes at a time when the agency has faced criticism for its handling of detainee health and safety. The number of deaths in ICE custody has been increasing annually since 2022, prompting concerns over the conditions in detention facilities. Recent changes in ICE’s death notification policy limit reporting to incidents occurring while detainees are in custody, raising questions about oversight and transparency. Historical data shows a troubling trend in detainee mortality, with ICE recording at least 11 deaths in hospitals in 2026, further complicating the agency’s accountability in managing the health of migrants under its care.
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