Three more immigrants arrested by ICE at S.F. immigration court
On Friday, ICE agents arrested three asylum-seekers immediately after their hearings in San Francisco's immigration court, continuing a disturbing trend of courtroom arrests. A Department of Homeland Security attorney's motion to dismiss their petitions aimed to expedite deportations, but judges provided the asylum-seekers with time to respond, typically offering them protections against deportation. Despite this, ICE agents detained them shortly after they exited the courtroom. This incident marks the latest in a series of over 30 arrests since May 27, contributing to a heightened atmosphere of fear among court attendees. Many asylum-seekers feel increasingly vulnerable, with one woman expressing her anxiety in front of the judge.
Legal advocates are forced to navigate strict security measures while trying to assist their clients, often huddling in corners to avoid detection by ICE. The situation has drawn attention to the legal and procedural challenges faced by immigrants within the judicial system. As arrests continue, the implications for those seeking asylum are significant, potentially impacting their chances of remaining in the U. S.