More Than Half of ICE Arrests in Connecticut Involved Individuals with Criminal Charges or Convictions

HARTFORD, Conn. (WFSB) — Recent ICE arrests across Connecticut — including four car wash workers in Southington, a Meriden high school graduate, and a New Haven mother — have ignited protests and public concern over who is being targeted by immigration enforcement.

According to the latest Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) data, as of June 15, more than 56,000 immigrants are currently in ICE custody nationwide. Notably, 46% of them have no criminal history.

In Connecticut, approximately 247 individuals have been arrested by ICE since President Trump returned to office in January. Here’s a breakdown of those arrests based on data from the Deportation Data Project:

25% (61 people) had prior criminal convictions.
42% (103 people) had pending criminal charges (though the specific charges were not disclosed).
33% had no known criminal history.

Additionally:

81% of those arrested are men.
The largest share of arrestees are immigrants born in Ecuador.
About 35% of those arrested have already been deported, while the rest remain in detention.

The detentions have raised questions about transparency and conditions in ICE facilities. Channel 3’s I-Team has requested an interview with the head of ICE operations in Connecticut but has yet to receive a response.

As community protests continue, advocates and families are pressing for clarity and accountability around enforcement priorities and detainee treatment.

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