DeLauro Statement on Deportations by Immigration and Customs Enforcement

WASHINGTON, DC (January 6, 2016) — Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) today released the following statement on the deportation of non-violent, undocumented immigrants by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The deportations, which include families, women, and children, have taken place in states across the country and are reportedly planned for Connecticut in the coming weeks.

"The Administration's decision to deport individuals solely on immigration violations is cruel. Many of these immigrants, including women and children, have fled unspeakable violence in Central America in hopes of finding safety and security for their families in America. My staff has reached out to ICE on the decision to deport these individuals and I will continue to monitor the agency's activities. While there are many facets in the border control and immigration system, at times common sense and humanity should come into play. Congress should immediately pass comprehensive immigration reform and end the practice of breaking up families."

Additionally, DeLauro sent the attached letter to Jeh Johnson, Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, which is the department that oversees ICE. In the letter, DeLauro states that the Administration should use prosecutorial discretion in the cases of families and children; as such discretion is critical to common sense enforcement.

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