A Cuban migrant known as "Óscar" was taken into custody by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers immediately after leaving a hearing at the Houston Immigration Court in Texas. This incident has stirred distress among those close to the migrant, as well as concern among activists and legal professionals who have noted an uptick in such actions.
A woman, who identified herself as a family acquaintance, tearfully told Univision, “He is harmless, he’s not doing anything wrong.” Outside the courthouse located at 8701 S. Gessner Road in southwest Houston, she implored, "Please, tell us where he is going. We are his family, we want to know. He is not a criminal. He hasn't done anything wrong," she emphasized, visibly shaken.
According to her account, Óscar had been residing in the United States for a year and a half and had applied for political asylum. "He had already attended court once. This was his second appearance," she explained. “He did everything by the book, yet his case was dismissed... we couldn't speak with him (or the judge)," she added.
Concerns Over ICE's Courtroom Tactics
The woman expressed her frustration, noting, "Immigrants are attending their hearings, trusting in the system. Yet, they are being apprehended as if they were criminals upon exiting." As Óscar was leaving the court with his family, heading towards the elevator, an officer approached and handcuffed him. Later, they were informed of his transfer to the Conroe detention center in Texas.
Óscar's arrest was not an isolated incident. On the same day, June 9, at least one other individual, an Ecuadorian immigrant, faced similar circumstances after leaving the Houston Immigration Court. According to attorney Bianca Santorini, who volunteered to assist despite not representing the detainees, both individuals had their cases dismissed and had no criminal history.
Undercover ICE Agents in Court
Santorini raised alarms about plainclothes ICE agents stationed within the court. "Right now, as we speak, there are four immigration agents inside, dressed like anyone else, but it's known they are ICE officers. They're seated in front of the elevator," she revealed. More troubling is her accusation that individuals within the judicial system may be collaborating with ICE to facilitate these arrests.
"They’re not talking to everyone exiting the court. They know which individuals have had their cases dismissed. They aren't in the courtroom, they aren't at the hearings... someone inside this courthouse is clearly providing information to ICE officers," Santorini criticized.
A Legal Policy Under Scrutiny
When approached by local outlets like Univision 45, ICE declined to comment on specific cases. However, they confirmed the existence of a provisional guideline since January 21, 2025, allowing arrests inside or outside immigration courts. This policy has faced criticism from immigrant rights organizations, who view it as intimidation and a breach of due process.
In light of these developments, Santorini urged all immigrants attending court hearings to be accompanied by legal counsel. A lawyer's presence can not only ensure a fairer process but also act as a witness and safeguard against potential abuses of power. The arrests in Houston mark the first confirmed in the city in recent weeks, though similar occurrences have been reported in San Antonio and Los Angeles. This new precedent raises alarms about the use of confidential information and the manner in which immigration procedures are being executed in the United States.
Questions About Immigration Court Arrests
Why was Óscar arrested after his court hearing?
Óscar was arrested by ICE officers after his court hearing, despite having no criminal history and having his case dismissed. This reflects a concerning practice where immigrants are detained upon leaving court.
What are the concerns surrounding ICE's presence in courts?
Concerns include ICE agents operating in plainclothes within court premises and potential collaboration from judicial staff, leading to targeted arrests of immigrants whose cases were dismissed.
How can immigrants protect themselves when attending court hearings?
It is advised that immigrants attend court hearings with legal representation. A lawyer can provide a fair process and act as a witness to prevent potential power abuse.