ICE Considers Paying Bounty Hunters to Track Immigrants
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is reportedly drafting a controversial program that would offer cash rewards to private bounty hunters for locating and tracking undocumented immigrants. Critics, including immigrant rights groups, argue the plan risks racial profiling, abuse, and further distrust in law enforcement.
How the ICE Bounty Hunter Program Would Work
Internal documents reveal ICE is testing a pilot program that would pay private contractors—such as bounty hunters and investigators—to find immigrants with outstanding deportation orders. Payments could range from hundreds to thousands of dollars per case, depending on complexity.
Modeled after fugitive recovery systems, the initiative would apply similar tactics to civil immigration cases, raising concerns about privatized enforcement and oversight gaps.
Backlash: “Reckless and Unaccountable”
Advocates and legal experts warn the program could lead to wrongful arrests and violence.
- María Rodríguez, Florida Immigrant Coalition: “This incentivizes vigilantes to target people based on immigration status.”
- ACLU’s Andre Segura: “Privatizing enforcement invites abuse and violates due process.”
ICE Defends Plan Amid Resource Shortages
ICE claims the program would help manage a backlog of deportation cases. An anonymous official stated, “Partnering with certified professionals could improve efficiency.”
Critics counter that bounty hunters lack the training and accountability of federal agents, increasing risks of misconduct.
Political Divide: Biden’s Immigration Dilemma
The proposal tests the Biden administration’s stance on enforcement, angering progressives while drawing GOP support.
- Sen. Tom Cotton (R-AR): “If bounty hunters are needed to enforce the law, so be it.”
- Immigrant Advocates: Fear the policy will deter communities from reporting crimes or seeking help.
Legal Battles Ahead
If implemented, lawsuits are expected, with groups arguing the program exceeds ICE’s legal authority. Meanwhile, immigrant communities brace for heightened fear and instability.
This proposal marks a stark shift in U.S. immigration policy—one that could redefine enforcement tactics for years to come.
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