ICE Arrests in North Carolina Surpass 5,000 in 2026

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has apprehended over 5,000 individuals in North Carolina during 2026, according to data from the Deportation Data Project. This figure includes at least 441 arrests in the Raleigh area alone. These numbers are part of a larger national trend, with ICE detentions across the United States exceeding 253,000 for the year. August 2026 reportedly set a record for monthly arrests for the third consecutive month, with nearly 51,000 apprehensions.

The data highlights varying backgrounds among those detained. Approximately 28% of those detained nationwide were convicted criminals, while 30% had pending criminal charges. Notably, over 40% of individuals detained had no prior criminal history. These statistics have raised concerns among immigrant advocates, who report increased fear and anxiety within immigrant communities due to the expanding enforcement efforts.

However, a spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has contested the Deportation Data Project’s findings. The spokesperson stated that the data was selectively presented to create a misleading narrative and that neither DHS nor ICE has verified the project’s methods or results, calling the project “not accurate.” This dispute over data accuracy and methodology is occurring as ICE continues its enforcement activities across the country.

National Enforcement Trends

The national figures for 2026 show a significant number of apprehensions. August alone saw nearly 51,000 arrests, marking a new monthly high for the third month in a row. Despite the increase in arrests, the rate of deportations has remained relatively steady, averaging about 1,200 individuals per day. A snapshot from July indicated that over 65,000 people were in detention, with a substantial 70% of them having no criminal conviction.

It is important to distinguish between different measures of enforcement. The North Carolina numbers specifically refer to apprehensions, while national comparisons may include detentions, and monthly figures track arrests. This distinction is crucial when interpreting the overall scope of ICE’s activities.

Data Accessibility and Controversy

Adding to the controversy surrounding enforcement data, ICE removed thousands of detainees from its online locator system on September 15, 2026. This action, which included individuals with final removal orders, has made it more difficult for families and advocacy groups to track the whereabouts of detained individuals. This move has intensified criticism regarding the agency’s data transparency practices.

The North Carolina arrest total of over 5,000 in 2026 is therefore situated within a broader debate about the accuracy and presentation of immigration enforcement statistics. While DHS maintains that the Deportation Data Project’s figures are unverified, immigrant advocates continue to express concerns about the impact of these arrests on communities across the state and the nation.

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