In recent weeks, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids and operations have once again taken center stage in the public conversation in the United States.
However, beyond the media attention, these operations have a dimension that is often overlooked: the psychological impact on migrants and their families.
Therefore, if you are going through an immigration process (such as asylum, U Visa, VAWA, or cancellation of removal), understanding the current context can help you strengthen your case from a clinical and evidence-based perspective.
Important note: This is not legal advice. For specific decisions, it is best to consult with your immigration attorney.
A brief overview of ICE
ICE is a federal agency responsible for enforcing immigration laws within the United States.
Its main functions include:
- Detaining individuals in an irregular immigration status
- Enforcing deportation orders
- Investigating immigration-related crimes
In this context, raids can take place in various locations: homes, workplaces, airports, or even courthouses.
In addition, in recent months there has been an increase in more visible operations, which has caused concern in various communities.
Latest News on ICE Raids
Below is an updated summary of events in March 2026, organized by state.
Raids in California
In California, one of the most recent cases occurred at San Francisco International Airport, where a person was detained by federal agents in front of their family. This incident sparked a strong public outcry and sparked a debate over the use of federal data in immigration enforcement operations.
This type of intervention in public spaces reflects an expansion of immigration checkpoints, which can cause high levels of anxiety, especially among families with children.
(AP News)
In addition, concerns were raised about the sharing of information between agencies such as the TSA and ICE at airports.
(ABC News)
Raids in Florida
Florida currently leads the nation in the number of immigration arrests in 2026, according to recent reports based on official data.
This not only reflects increased activity by ICE, but also an environment in which many people live in constant fear of being detained, even when they have ongoing legal proceedings.
(Tampbay)
In addition, various reports indicate that the number of arrests has exceeded 20,000 in the past year, reinforcing the trend toward increased enforcement in the state.
(WLRN)
Raids in Arizona
In Arizona, particularly in Phoenix, a raid was reported at an apartment complex that resulted in multiple arrests linked to federal investigations.
Raids of this kind in residential areas have a direct impact on migrant communities’ sense of safety and emotional stability.
(Cronkitenews)
Asimismo, reportes recientes indican que los arrestos de ICE en el estado se han triplicado, con un aumento en operativos en vía pública y comunidades.
(AZMirror)
Raids in New York
En Nueva York, se han documentado arrestos dentro o en las inmediaciones de tribunales de inmigración, particularmente en Manhattan.
This is particularly relevant because many people visit these facilities to carry out legal proceedings, which can create a perception of institutional insecurity.
(WGCU News)
In addition, the Department of Justice acknowledged errors in the justification for some of these arrests, which intensified the legal and political debate.
(ABC News)
Raids in Minnesota, Ohio, and New Mexico
In these states, the recent focus has not been solely on raids, but on the legal and social consequences of such operations.
In Minnesota, a federal judge ordered that individuals detained following recent immigration raids be granted prompt access to legal counsel.
(AP News)
In addition, the state initiated legal proceedings to gain access to evidence related to incidents that occurred during federal operations.
(AP News)
In Ohio, civil rights organizations filed lawsuits against ICE over alleged warrantless arrests and other controversial practices.
(Ohio Capital Journal)
Meanwhile, in New Mexico, there have been reports of new arrivals at immigration detention centers and cases of individuals remaining in ICE custody, reflecting the ongoing immigration activity in the state.
(SourceNM)
(WLRN News)
What rights do you have if you are contacted by immigration agents?
It is essential that you know your rights, regardless of your immigration status:
- You have the right to remain silent
- You may refuse to sign documents without legal counsel
- You have the right to request a lawyer
- You may ask to see a valid court order
These rights are essential not only from a legal standpoint, but also for protecting your emotional well-being in highly stressful situations.
What should you do if immigration agents knock on your door without a warrant?
If ICE shows up at your home, it’s important to remain calm and think clearly:
- Do not open the door
- Ask them to slide the warrant under the door or show it through the window
- Make sure it is a warrant signed by a judge
- Do not provide any unnecessary information
Situations like this can cause intense fear, so it’s a good idea to prepare in advance by creating a family plan.
Why is a psychological evaluation important in this context?
Raids and the fear of deportation can lead to symptoms such as:
- Chronic anxiety
- Post-traumatic stress
- Depression
- Strained family relationships
From a clinical perspective, these symptoms can be documented through a professional psychological evaluation, which is essential in cases such as:
- Asylum
- U Visa
- VAWA
- Extreme Hardship
In addition, these evaluations help translate your emotional experience into technical language that can be used in legal proceedings.
Today’s ICE raids are not merely an immigration issue; they are a reality that profoundly affects the mental health of thousands of people.
That is why, if you are going through an immigration process, it is not just about meeting legal requirements. It is also important to document the emotional impact of your situation in a professional and ethical manner.
Whether you are a migrant or a lawyer, incorporating psychological evaluations into the process can make a significant difference in the outcome of the case.
