Federal immigration enforcement has surged in 2025, with most ICE arrests happening in border and Southern states like Texas and Florida. In the first five months of President Trump’s second term, ICE made over 109,000 arrests nationwide, more than double the 49,000 during the same period in 2024. This sharp increase reflects a major policy shift and a renewed focus on mass deportation.
Texas accounted for nearly 25% of all ICE arrests, while Florida made up 11%, and California 7%. Georgia and Arizona followed, with 4% and 3% respectively. In contrast, Vermont, Alaska, and Montana saw the fewest arrests, with about 100 combined. By late June, ICE arrests for 2025 had already surpassed 300,000, putting the agency on track for its highest annual total since the Obama administration. Deportations reached 150,000, with the Trump administration aiming for up to 1 million removals this year.
The administration has reversed Biden-era restrictions, now allowing ICE to target a broader group, including people without criminal records. Seventy percent of ICE arrests in 2025 involved individuals charged with or convicted of a crime, focusing on violent offenders, gang members, and those with serious criminal histories. ICE has also expanded its work with local police through the 287(g) program, signing 444 new agreements since January, bringing the total to 579. Worksite enforcement has increased, with over 1,000 illegal workers arrested and more than $1 million in fines proposed against businesses since January.
The majority of those arrested are from Latin American and Caribbean countries, matching broader immigration patterns. Arrests have also surged in states beyond the border, including South Carolina, Michigan, Minnesota, Colorado, Ohio, Nevada, Tennessee, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, Alabama, and Utah. In these states, increases range from 100% to 470% compared to 2024.
Todd Lyons, Acting ICE Director, stated, “Anyone found in violation of federal immigration law is subject to arrest.” DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stressed the focus on removing “the worst of the worst,” including those convicted of child rape, arson, and human smuggling. The Trump administration, with support from Secretary Noem, has made mass deportation a central policy goal.
These changes have led to increased fear in immigrant communities, especially in Texas and Florida, as ICE now targets a wider pool of people, including those without criminal records. Legal and advocacy groups are preparing for more lawsuits, citing concerns about due process and family separations.
Supporters say the crackdown improves public safety by removing violent criminals. Critics warn it harms families and increases fear among immigrants. As reported by VisaVerge.com, the administration’s goal of 1 million annual deportations would set a modern record if reached.
For more information, readers can visit the official ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Statistics page. To report suspected immigration violations, call the ICE tip line at 866-DHS-2-ICE or use the online tip form at www.ice.gov.
As the 2026 midterm elections approach, immigration remains a central issue, with ongoing debate over the scope and impact of these enforcement actions. The effects on communities in Texas, Florida, and beyond will continue to unfold in the months ahead.
Learn Today
ICE → U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency responsible for enforcing immigration laws and deportations.
287(g) Program → A partnership allowing local police to enforce federal immigration laws under ICE supervision.
Deportation → The formal removal of a foreign national from the United States for violating immigration law.
Mass Deportation → Large-scale removal of immigrants, often used as a policy tool to reduce undocumented population.
Due Process → Legal requirement ensuring fair treatment through the normal judicial system for all individuals.
This Article in a Nutshell
In 2025, ICE arrests surged nationwide, doubling since 2024, targeting violent offenders but also non-criminal immigrants amid aggressive new policies increasing deportations and cooperation with local police.
— By VisaVerge.com
