U.S. Immigration to Conduct Raids in Churches, Hospitals, and Schools
U.S. immigration and border enforcement officials have regained the authority to arrest individuals in previously restricted areas, following a reversal of earlier policies by the Trump administration.
These areas, often referred to as “sensitive locations,” include places like schools, hospitals, and places of worship.
The practice of avoiding arrests in such locations had been in effect since 2011, but the Trump administration argued that this limitation hindered law enforcement efforts.
In contrast, the subsequent Biden administration had strengthened restrictions on these arrests, further curbing the scope of enforcement actions in sensitive areas.
According to the Department of Homeland Security, the change aims to prevent “criminals” from using schools and churches as safe havens to evade detention. The department emphasized trusting law enforcement officers to apply discretion and good judgment in their duties.
In addition, a separate directive allows for the expedited deportation of undocumented individuals unable to demonstrate at least two years of residence in the U.S., streamlining the removal process for recent arrivals.
