ICE Changes Reporting Policy on Detainee Deaths

A leaked memo indicates that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is altering its reporting practices regarding the deaths of individuals in its custody. Acting director David Venturella announced that ICE will no longer be required to report deaths that occur within 30 days of a person's release, reversing a directive from the Biden administration. This change follows reports of 18 detainee deaths this year, which may surpass last year's total of at least 30 deaths, the highest in two decades. The policy shift has raised concerns amid ongoing scrutiny of ICE's medical care and protests at the Delaney Hall detention center in Newark, New Jersey, where detainees have protested conditions including inadequate food and medical care. The previous 30-day reporting rule was implemented to ensure accountability for individuals released with serious medical conditions. An ICE spokesperson stated that the updated policy clarifies the agency's responsibilities regarding deaths occurring after individuals leave custody.