The U.S. has long taken a detention-first approach when addressing undocumented migrants that might be removable or inadmissible. While immigration detention is technically civil, the facilities used by the government to house detained migrants are largely indistinguishable from U.S. prisons, and some immigrants are housed in the same facilities as those who have been convicted of criminal offenses. Treating people who have fled violence and dangerous conditions in their home countries as if they are criminals is recognized as inhumane by many immigration advocacy organizations and activists.
As awareness about the often inhumane conditions inside U.S. immigration detention facilities increases, there have been more calls for alternatives to detention. Recently, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement began a limited pilot program to test wrist-worn GPS monitoring systems as potential alternatives to detention. A New York immigration lawyer at Pozo Goldstein might advocate on behalf of detained immigrants to try to secure their release on immigration bonds while they wait for hearings.
New Wrist-Monitoring GPS Technology Being Tested
The Enforcement and Removal Operations division of ICE recently began a limited pilot program to test GPS monitoring devices that immigrants can wear on their wrists as an alternative to detention. The devices will be deployed through a limited program in Denver to test their effectiveness when worn by immigrants for the ability of ICE to track them and understand their movements.
The executive associate director of the Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) stated that the division continuously works to develop technologies and tools to enhance the ability of ICE officers to uphold the country’s immigration laws. If the wrist-worn devices are found to be effective, they would be used as a supplement to other alternatives to detention for immigrants who qualify for remaining outside of detention facilities while their cases proceed.
The wrist-worn GPS devices provide the ability to monitor the locations of the migrants and include facial matching technology and messaging capabilities. The technology used in the devices works similarly to a smartwatch but can’t be used for any additional functions other than compliance with immigration authorities.
What Are Alternatives to Detention?
Alternatives to detention (ATD) are tools used to supervise certain eligible undocumented immigrants who are not detained through the use of case management services and various monitoring technologies. Immigrants who receive alternatives to detention are first screened for potential public safety risks, and only those who are deemed to pose little risk to public safety qualify for ATD. While they receive ATD, they will also have various monitoring and reporting requirements based on the results of their screening.
Researchers have found that the use of ATD increases the rates of people appearing for their court hearings, complying with the conditions of release, and having a greater understanding and awareness of their legal immigration obligations. People who are placed on ATD who fail to report or otherwise comply can be taken into custody and potentially removed from the U.S.
Wrist-Worn GPS Devices vs. Ankle Monitors
Currently, many people who receive ATD are placed on ankle monitors to allow ICE officers to monitor their locations and track their movements. While ankle monitors also function similarly to the wrist-worn devices that are currently being tested, they are more obtrusive. Many members of the public associate ankle monitors with the criminal justice system, effectively marking immigrants who wear them as potential criminals. This can result in social stigma, a difficulty for wearers to find housing and jobs, and other problems. The wrist-worn devices might carry less stigma since they are not used to monitor and track people who are released from criminal court on electronic monitoring while their cases are pending. This difference might make it easier for immigrants to assimilate and access more resources.
Get Help From a New York Immigration Lawyer
People whose loved ones are currently being detained should talk to the experienced New York immigration lawyers at Pozo Goldstein. Our team of attorneys is comprised of former immigration prosecutors and a former judge, providing us with unique insight into the workings of the immigration court system. If you need help with immigration issues, you should reach out to our law firm today by calling us at (212) 201-9031 to request a consultation.
