U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers arrested several immigrants at scheduled court hearings in Sacramento on May 29, triggering alarm among immigration lawyers and advocacy groups who fear a growing federal push to fast-track deportations.
Giselle Garcia, a volunteer with the nonprofit NorCal Resist, said the detentions have left many undocumented immigrants fearful of attending future hearings. “They’re put in an impossible position, and their fear is legitimate,” Garcia said. “It’s hard to tell them they have nothing to be afraid of.”
Legal experts say the arrests may reflect a broader trend by federal authorities to sidestep the court process and use expedited removal procedures instead.
Blake Nordahl, a clinical professor at McGeorge School of Law, explained that ICE may be requesting immigration judges to dismiss cases. “If the case is dismissed, then Immigration and Customs Enforcement can place the individual into something called expedited removal,” he said.
Expedited removal allows the federal government to deport undocumented individuals without a court hearing. The practice is now under legal scrutiny, with federal courts reviewing whether its expanded use is constitutional, according to Nordahl.
In the Sacramento cases, three men were arrested even though a judge ruled their cases should not be dismissed—raising further concerns among advocates about due process and the role of ICE in court settings.
Widespread Fear and Legal Guidance
The arrests have created anxiety among undocumented immigrants with upcoming court dates, some of whom are now considering skipping their hearings out of fear of detention.
But Nordahl strongly advises against this. “It’s critically important that everybody shows up to court if they have a hearing,” he said. “If you don’t show up, you will be ordered removed in your absence.”
He also recommends that individuals attend hearings with legal representation. “If you don’t have an attorney, you still want someone who can accompany you to immigration court to help document the process and protect your rights,” Nordahl added.
Community Support and Alternatives
NorCal Resist offers a volunteer accompaniment program for individuals who have immigration hearings. “They can contact us at least 48 hours in advance, and we’ll do our best to schedule a volunteer to go with them,” said Garcia.
For those concerned about physical attendance, another option is to request a virtual appearance. “If you have enough time, you can ask to appear telephonically or by WebEx,” Garcia explained. However, she cautioned that such motions must be submitted in writing and approved by a judge. If no approval is received before the hearing date, individuals are advised to appear in person.
NorCal Resist also operates the Sacramento Rapid Response hotline, offering support and resources for those affected by ICE enforcement actions.
Advocates continue to stress the importance of knowing one’s rights and seeking support when facing the complex and often intimidating immigration court process.
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