ICE Detention Population Surpasses 68,400, Hitting Record High in 2025
As of 14 December 2025, the ICE detention population has reached a new record high of more than 68,400 individuals. This figure surpasses the previous high set earlier in December 2025. The data published by ICE on 22 December 2025 covers the period from 1 October to 14 December 2025.
Since January 2025, over 328,000 people have been arrested by the administration, with approximately 327,000 deported. Despite public rhetoric focusing on targeting the "worst of the worst," immigrants with no criminal record remain the largest group detained. It is important to note that being undocumented is a civil status, not a criminal offense; however, the Trump administration has moved to invalidate protections for many immigrants legally residing in the country.
A notable incident occurred during a Chicago immigration raid on 17 December 2025, where agents reportedly smashed a car window.
ICE releases data on detention biweekly. The Guardian has tracked arrests, detentions, and deportations since January 2025 and calculated totals for the year based on this information.
