Overview
- Local lawyers report a surge since November 12 of applicants detained during marriage-based interviews at the San Diego USCIS office, with many described as spouses of U.S. citizens who lack criminal records.
- ICE confirms apprehensions can occur at USCIS sites when individuals are unlawfully present or have outstanding warrants, removal orders, fraud findings, or other immigration violations.
- Several arrests unfolded inside interview rooms in front of families, and detainees have been transported to the Otay Mesa Detention Center, according to attorneys.
- A class-action lawsuit filed November 25 in the Southern District of California challenges ICE’s detention of people who appear for routine check-ins or proceedings in San Diego.
- Immigration attorneys urge clients to keep interview appointments to avoid abandonment denials, while preparing for possible custody given recent enforcement at the site.