New data from ICE indicates a significant rise in arrests in California so far this year. They’re up over 122% compared to the first half of 2024. Last month alone, there were over 25 hundred arrests, a 500% increase from just over 400 last year. Nearly half of those arrested had only pending charges or other immigration issues. About half had prior criminal convictions.
According to the Deportation Data Project which tracks the numbers for ICE, just in the first half of 2025, California ICE arrests surged nearly 20% compared to all of 2024. U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli says no sanctuary exists against federal laws.
