Tom Homan, President Donald Trump’s border czar, stated that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is set to achieve record arrests for a second month in a row. This marks an intensified effort as the administration strengthens its immigration enforcement. In an interview with NewsNation, Homan noted the agency’s record-setting arrest totals in June and anticipated higher numbers for July.
‘Deportation-Maxxing’ Efforts
Homan described the agency’s actions as “deportation-maxxing.” This term, originating from internet slang, refers to maximizing efforts to their fullest. He mentioned that since ICE is fully funded, they intend to continue their aggressive measures. Homan also discussed challenges faced by the administration due to court injunctions impacting immigration arrests, detention, and removals.
The Trump administration faces criticism over its mass deportation campaign. Civil liberties groups, immigration lawyers, and some legislators have raised concerns about enforcement methods. Fatal incidents during enforcement have intensified scrutiny.
Current ICE Detention Statistics
ICE’s latest detention data reveals an increase in enforcement actions. The agency published updated statistics showing a rise in arrests and detentions. As of July 11, ICE held 65,765 individuals in detention, up from about 60,300 in early April. This number nears the record of more than 70,700 detainees reported earlier this year.
Arrests averaged approximately 1,474 per day during early July, surpassing June’s daily average, according to an analysis by Syracuse University’s Austin Kocher. Removals maintained a daily rate of around 1,246 from April to July.
Significantly, individuals with no criminal background represent the largest group in ICE detention. The proportion detained solely on immigration charges has increased since April, while those with criminal charges have decreased. Immigration judges ordered the release of thousands of detainees, including over 2,000 in May alone.
Body Camera Expansion After Fatal Incidents
ICE’s heightened enforcement has come under scrutiny following two fatal shootings in July. Both incidents, involving traffic stops, were not captured on body cameras, leading to demands for broader camera use. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) now requires that at least one officer in such operations wears a body camera. ICE has purchased cameras and begun officer training.
Body camera use aligns with a 2022 executive order from then-President Joe Biden, promoting accountability and transparency in federal law enforcement. Though ICE began issuing cameras in 2024, broader distribution slowed due to budget issues. A 2025 internal memo called cameras a valuable tool, and pressure for their use intensified after high-profile shootings in Minneapolis.
Former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced in 2026 plans to acquire and deploy cameras nationwide as funding became available, emphasizing their importance for officer accountability and public transparency.