The Washington Post is reporting that a new ICE memo outlines a plan to deport migrants to countries where they are not citizens, potentially with as little as six hours’ notice. Acting ICE Director Todd M. Lyons said in the memo that a recent Supreme Court ruling allows officers to immediately start sending immigrants to "alternative" countries.
Those being sent to countries without diplomatic assurances of safety will be notified 24 hours in advance, or just six hours in exigent circumstances. The Post said the U.S. has rarely deported people to countries where they are not citizens. Lawyers warn that thousands of immigrants with work permits and families in the U.S. could be uprooted and sent to places where they lack ties or a common language.
Immigrants stating a fear of deportation will be screened, Lyons wrote. However, immigration lawyers argue the plan doesn't give immigrants enough time to assess the danger. The National Immigration Litigation Alliance, which is challenging the third-country removals, said the plan puts thousands of lives at risk. ICE and DHS did not immediately respond to requests for comment, The Post said.