ICE Arrests Surge in San Diego Region, Data Shows
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) data reveals a significant surge in migrant arrests in the San Diego region over the past 12 months. In July 2026, ICE made 1,964 arrests in the San Diego and Imperial counties area, and nearly…
San Diego, CA, August 26, 2026 —
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) data indicates a substantial increase in migrant arrests within the San Diego region over the past year. Between January 2025 and August 2026, nearly 18,000 individuals were arrested in the San Diego and Imperial counties area.
In July 2026 alone, ICE reported 1,964 arrests in this specific geographic area. This figure represents 35% of the total ICE arrests made across California during the reported period. Notably, the San Diego and Imperial counties region constitutes only 9% of the state’s total population, highlighting a disproportionate rate of arrests.
The data further reveals that the majority of individuals apprehended were from Mexico. A significant portion, approximately 75%, reportedly had no prior criminal record beyond immigration violations.
These figures emerge amidst a broader trend of increasing ICE arrests nationwide. The trend continues despite ongoing public criticism regarding enforcement tactics and instances of clashes observed in other cities.
Story summarized from the original created by Lillian Perlmutter • Times of San Diego on timesofsandiego.com, see more information here.
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