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Trump Immigration Enforcement: Major Policy Changes and What They Mean for Immigrants


Since taking office, President Donald Trump has enforced sweeping changes in U.S. immigration policy, drastically increasing enforcement measures. From heightened ICE arrests to the use of military planes for deportations, these policies mark one of the most aggressive crackdowns on immigration in modern history. Trump’s immigration enforcement operations have transformed how federal agencies operate. Even minor immigration infractions are grounds for immediate action.

For immigrants living in the U.S., understanding these changes is crucial. The threat of deportation is more immediate than ever, and legal protections are being stripped away. Many legal experts argue that Trump immigration enforcement policies have blurred the lines between civil immigration violations and criminal offenses. This increases the risk for undocumented individuals. If you or a loved one is affected, now is the time to seek legal guidance.

Key Trump Immigration Enforcement Policies

Increased Immigration Arrests and Detentions

Under the Trump administration, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has dramatically ramped up operations.

  • ICE now conducts an average of 710 daily arrests, a sharp increase from 311 per day under the previous administration.
  • Over 1,000 undocumented immigrants have been detained, with more than 600 transferred to ICE detention centers.
  • Reports suggest ICE field offices have been assigned daily arrest quotas, pushing officers to maximize apprehensions.

Expanded Immigration Enforcement Agencies

Trump has expanded the role of multiple federal law enforcement agencies in immigration operations, including:

  • FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation)
  • DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration)
  • ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives)
  • CBP (Customs and Border Protection)

This broader interagency collaboration has resulted in increased workplace raids, community arrests, and rapid deportation proceedings.

Broadened Deportation Priorities

Unlike previous administrations, Trump has eliminated prioritization guidelines for deportation. Now, he is enforcing that any undocumented immigrant can be targeted, regardless of criminal history.

Before, deportation efforts focused mainly on individuals with serious criminal records. Under Trump, all undocumented individuals are equally prioritized for removal.

Use of Military Resources for Deportations

For the first time, military aircraft are being used to enforce deportation flights. Trump’s policies don’t only accelerates removal proceedings but also demonstrate the a commitment to putting these policies into place. This approach reinforces Trump’s immigration enforcement policies as one of the most aggressive efforts to remove undocumented immigrants in U.S. history.

Diplomatic Pressure on Non-Cooperative Countries

Countries that refuse to accept deported nationals face severe economic consequences under Trump’s policies.

  • The U.S. has warned nations that refuse to take back deportees with trade penalties.
  • After Colombia initially rejected a U.S. deportation flight, Trump threatened to impose tariffs on Colombian exports. This led to a swift reversal, with Colombia even dispatching its presidential aircraft to pick up deported nationals.

Revocation of ‘Sensitive Locations’ Policy

Previously, ICE avoided arrests in hospitals, schools, and places of worship. Trump has abolished these protections, allowing enforcement actions in any location, including churches, hospitals, and shelters.

Termination of Migrant Entry App at the Border

The CBP One app, which facilitated temporary entry permits for migrants, has been discontinued. This move effectively shuts down an alternative path for migrants to enter the U.S. legally.

Declared National Emergency at the Border

Trump has declared a national emergency at the U.S.-Mexico border, allowing:

  • Increased border security funding
  • Expansion of the border wall
  • Heightened surveillance and patrol efforts

Attempt to End Birthright Citizenship

In an unprecedented move, Trump signed an executive order attempting to end birthright citizenship.

  • A federal court blocked the order, ruling it unconstitutional under the 14th Amendment.
  • Despite setbacks, Trump continues to push for legislative changes that could restrict birthright citizenship in the future.

Increased Deportation Flights

Deportation flights have surged, with expanded use of military aircraft to remove undocumented immigrants swiftly.

Immigration Courts Become Less Transparent

The Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) has removed the Immigration Court Practice Manual and Board of Immigration Appeals Practice Manual from its official website.

  • This means immigration court procedures are no longer publicly accessible, raising serious concerns about due process violations.
  • Legal experts argue that this lack of transparency is unconstitutional.

Priority Removal for Recent Border Crossers

ICE has been instructed to prioritize the removal of immigrants who:

  • Entered the U.S. within the last two years
  • Applied for asylum but failed the Credible Fear Interview
  • Have pending deportation orders

End of Prosecutorial Discretion Requests

Historically, DHS attorneys had the discretion to dismiss or administratively close cases voluntarily.

How Immigrants Can Protect Themselves Under Trump Immigration Enforcement

Given these dramatic changes, immigrants must take immediate steps to protect their legal status.

Consult an Immigration Attorney

With immigration enforcement at an all-time high, consulting an experienced immigration lawyer is more critical than ever. A lawyer can:

  • Assess your legal options
  • Help you file for asylum, green cards, or citizenship
  • Defend against deportation proceedings

File a Strong Immigration Case

As Trump immigration enforcement tightens, securing legal status now is more important than ever. A well-prepared immigration case is the best defense against deportation. Start your legalization journey today.

Final Thoughts on Trump Immigration Enforcement

The U.S. immigration landscape has changed drastically under Trump, with harsh new policies affecting thousands of undocumented immigrants. These enforcement measures, from expanded ICE arrests to military deportations, signal a tough stance on immigration that will likely continue.

If you or a loved one is at risk, take action now. Protect your rights, stay informed, and seek legal help.

📞 Call SHEPELSKY LAW GROUP today at 718-769-6352 to discuss your case and start your path to U.S. citizenship.