Detentions at South Florida Immigration Check-Ins Spark Outrage

Several South Florida families say their loved ones were unexpectedly detained during routine immigration check-ins on Monday in Delray Beach.

Witnesses reported seeing detainees being placed in zip ties and escorted into SUVs outside BI Incorporated, a facility that operates the Intensive Supervision Appearance Program (ISAP) for the Department of Homeland Security.

A woman, speaking anonymously, said her cousin was detained after arriving for his usual appointment. “They tricked them into coming in, like they’ve done before, but this time they took them away,” she said tearfully. Another mother described how her 30-year-old son, who has lived in the U.S. since childhood, was also detained after being told to fix a phone issue related to his supervision.

ICE official Garrett Ripa denied allegations that individuals were misled into showing up for detention. However, William Botsch, a volunteer with Miramar Circle of Protection, warned that such actions, while not routine, could become a strategy to meet arrest quotas.

Advocates fear these detentions will deter immigrants from checking in, potentially worsening their legal situations. Families are demanding transparency and fair treatment in the immigration process.