Nearly Half of ICE Arrests in Northern California Involve No Crimes

Recent data reveals a significant shift in the demographics of individuals arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Northern California. For the first time, nearly half of those apprehended have no prior criminal record. An analysis by Mission Local utilizing data from the Deportation Data Project at the University of California, Berkeley, indicates that 48 percent of ICE arrests in September involved individuals without any criminal background.

This stark figure contrasts sharply with earlier months, when the majority of arrests were primarily of individuals with criminal convictions or pending charges. In September 2025, the breakdown showed that 39 percent of those arrested had a criminal conviction, while 14 percent faced pending charges. This increase in arrests without a criminal record highlights a troubling trend in ICE enforcement practices.

Significant Increase in Arrests

ICE arrests across Northern California have more than tripled from January 20 to October 15, 2025, compared to the same period in the previous year. The statistics suggest an aggressive enforcement strategy, which aligns with statements made by former President Donald Trump regarding targeting the “worst of the worst” among immigrants. However, the latest data indicates that a growing portion of those arrested are individuals who have not committed any crimes.

In a broader national context, approximately 74 percent of individuals in ICE detention centers lack a criminal history, according to the Transaction Records Access Clearinghouse at Syracuse University. This suggests that the trend observed in Northern California is reflective of a larger pattern across the United States.

Impact on Local Immigration Proceedings

While Mission Local has previously reported a decline in arrests at San Francisco’s immigration courthouse, where immigrants with pending asylum cases attend routine hearings, the overall number of arrests remains alarming. The surge in arrests has raised concerns among immigrant advocates and community leaders regarding the implications for individuals seeking asylum or those with pending immigration cases.

The data also highlights that the short-term detention facility at 630 Sansome St. recorded an increase of 246 new detention stays in September, marking a 67 percent rise compared to the previous month. Typically, individuals are held at this facility for only a few hours before being transferred to long-term detention centers. However, reports indicate that at least 38 individuals were detained longer than the recommended 12 hours.

The situation continues to evolve, with advocates urging for transparency and reform in immigration enforcement practices. As the year-end approaches, the broader implications of these numbers on the immigrant community and the legal system remain a pressing concern for many in Northern California.