ICE Detains Over 2,300 Immigrants in Michigan with Deceptive Tactics

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has intensified its tactics in Michigan, detaining over 2,300 immigrants in the first ten months of 2025. Immigration attorneys are raising concerns about the increasing aggressiveness and deceptive methods used during these arrests, which often occur without drawing public attention.

Herman Dhade, president of the Detroit Immigration Law Firm, has observed a notable shift in ICE’s approach. Agents are now conducting arrests in more covert ways, such as during routine traffic stops or marriage-based green card interviews. Dhade recounted a case where a husband was detained during a green card interview, leaving his wife in shock. “Could you imagine being a newlywed and you’re a U.S. citizen or green card holder, only to have a trap set up right in front of you?” Dhade asked, highlighting the emotional turmoil these tactics cause.

Arrests are not only happening in immigration offices. Dhade noted that local police often contact ICE during minor traffic stops, leading to quiet arrests without public scrutiny. “People are being pulled over for minor issues, and then the officer calls ICE,” he stated, emphasizing the lack of visibility during these operations.

Inside immigration buildings, ICE agents have been seen using back entrances, further minimizing public awareness. “They are doing it covertly to not draw media attention,” Dhade said, indicating that the agents frequently do not wear identifiable clothing during these arrests. The intent behind these tactics appears to be to reduce potential backlash from the community.

The statistics reveal a troubling trend. According to the Deportation Data Project, arrests in Michigan have nearly tripled compared to all of 2024. This escalation has raised alarms among immigration advocates, who view it as a dangerous shift in ICE’s operational methods.

A memo dated May 12, 2025, signed by Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons, suggests that immigration officers may use force to enter homes without a judicial warrant. This directive has been criticized as a violation of the Fourth Amendment rights of individuals. Dhade explained that judicial warrants are essential for lawful entry into residences. “You need a judicial warrant for that from an actual judge,” he asserted, noting that ICE often presents administrative documents that can be misleading.

The confusion surrounding these administrative warrants puts vulnerable individuals at risk. “Immigrants aren’t going to know this subtlety, and ICE are taking advantage of that,” Dhade added. He explained that a warrant signed by a federal judge is the only legitimate authorization for home entry, and administrative warrants do not provide that authority.

As ICE’s practices continue to evolve, advocates have urged immigrants not to open their doors without proper documentation. Dhade reiterated that individuals should assert their rights calmly if confronted by ICE and seek legal counsel as soon as possible. “If they are kicking the door down, you don’t want to get injured either,” he advised, emphasizing the need for safety during such encounters.

The emotional toll of these tactics is profound. Dhade pointed out that many of those arrested have no criminal records, including individuals with work permits or U.S.-citizen spouses. In fact, nearly three-quarters of the immigrants detained in Michigan this year had no prior convictions. “They’re arresting people who are as clean as a whistle,” he remarked.

The implications extend beyond individual families. Advocates argue that these operations waste taxpayer resources by detaining individuals who are navigating the immigration system legally. Dhade highlighted a case of a father of two who, despite being granted permission to remain in the U.S. due to the dangers in his home country, is subjected to constant supervision by ICE. “These are two kids who could be without a father,” he lamented.

In addition, lawmakers and activists have raised concerns about the detentions occurring near the Ambassador Bridge in Southwest Detroit, where undocumented immigrants may be apprehended for minor infractions.

As ICE expands its authority and arrests continue to rise, Dhade stressed the importance of preparedness for Michigan families. He urged individuals to keep important documents accessible and to have a plan in case of encounters with ICE. “People should take this seriously,” he concluded, emphasizing the need for awareness in an increasingly challenging environment.