Nearly Half of ICE Arrests in Massachusetts Had No Criminal Record — What Boston Immigrants Should Know

The government says it only targets criminals. The data tells a different story.

A new report from the Deportation Data Project — a research group of academics and lawyers — analyzed more than 7,000 ICE arrests in Massachusetts since 2025. Their finding: nearly half of the people arrested had no criminal conviction and no pending criminal charges.

What the numbers show.

The Department of Homeland Security has repeatedly claimed that 70% of its arrests involve people with criminal records. The Massachusetts data shows the real figure is closer to 54% — and even that includes people charged (not convicted) of minor offenses.

• 7,000+ total ICE arrests in Massachusetts since 2025.

• 45% of those arrested had no criminal conviction or pending charge.

• Governor Healey has demanded that ICE explain who is being arrested — the administration has refused to respond.

• ICE has also sent late-night fax requests to Boston Police asking them to hold individuals before ICE pickup.

What this means for you — and how to protect yourself.

If you are undocumented or have a pending immigration case, do not assume you are safe because you have no criminal record. The data shows that ICE is arresting people across Massachusetts regardless of criminal history. The best protection is preparation: know your rights, have an attorney’s number with you, and make a plan for your family in case you are detained.

Need help? Contact Vartanian Law Firm for a confidential consultation. We serve immigrants across the Greater Boston area and can help you understand your rights and options.

Source: Boston.com — Report: Nearly half of immigrants arrested by ICE in Mass. had no criminal conviction or charge