Why ICE Arrests Are Decreasing in San Francisco Courts: Essential Insights

San Francisco Witnesses a Dramatic Decline in ICE Arrests at Immigration Courts

In an astonishing turn of events, the incidence of arrests by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at immigration courts in San Francisco has plummeted sharply. Throughout October, only seven arrests were reported—a stark decline from both the preceding month and summer averages. This decline is especially poignant considering the systemic changes in arrest patterns observed during the Trump administration, when courthouses became primary sites for ICE operations.

The Changing Landscape of Immigration Enforcement

As recently as September 2025, reports indicated at least 35 arrests occurred in San Francisco’s immigration court during that month alone, totaling over 120 arrests since May. These numbers depict a concerning trend where fear loomed over immigrants attending their hearings. According to Milli Atkinson, a lawyer from the San Francisco Bar Association, the last arrest at the 630 Sansome Street immigration court happened on October 3, signifying a complete pause in this troubling behavior within the court's atmosphere.

Habeas Corpus Petitions: A Game-Changer in Legal Defense

Experts point to the increasing effectiveness of habeas corpus petitions as a driving force behind this dramatic reduction. Previously heavily utilized for emergency releases, these petitions have evolved to become proactive tools, allowing lawyers to challenge unjust detentions almost immediately after they occur. Diana Mariscal, a senior attorney with La Raza Centro Legal, highlights the role of these petitions in essentially making ICE arrests a “complete waste of resources.” In some cases, law firms have secured the release of detained immigrants mere hours after their arrests.

The Role of Pro Bono Legal Aid in the Fight Against Detention

The Attorney of the Day program in San Francisco is a key player in this legal battle, aiming to provide support for immigrants who often appear in court without legal representation. This initiative plays a vital role in equipping immigrants with tools and knowledge to navigate the complexities of their cases effectively. Recent strategies have seen the use of group habeas petitions to amplify the collective strength of these vital legal efforts.

The Community Response to ICE Activities

Community engagement plays a crucial role in supporting immigrants during these tense court proceedings. Recent protests and public displays of solidarity have reflected collective community sentiments against ICE’s tactics in San Francisco. A prominent protest occurred on October 24, where demonstrators left signs reading “Solidarity” and “General strike,” sending a powerful message to government officials about local resistance to the current immigration enforcement climate.

Future Predictions: A Shifting Paradigm in Immigration Policy

The significant decline in arrests raises questions about the future trajectory of ICE enforcement in San Francisco and beyond. While the current drop in arrests may seem encouraging, experts warn that the situation remains vulnerable to changes in federal policy and administration. The Attorney of the Day program, while successful in securing immediate releases, operates amidst a backlog and an evolving political landscape that could reshape how immigration enforcement and legal representation are conducted.

The Broader Societal Implications

This recent turn of events not only impacts the immediate lives of those detained or at risk but also reverberates through communities, affecting public safety perceptions and community stability. Local efforts to build coalitions and advocate for humane immigration practices reflect an increasing recognition of the need for reform in immigration enforcement policies.

As the community holds its breath to see if this decline continues, it has underscored the vital nature of empathy, legal support, and policy advocacy in creating a more just immigration system. Empowered by a sense of community and a renewed legal strategy, San Francisco continues to navigate these always-contentious waters.

Join the Movement for Change

If you’re passionate about the future of immigration policy in San Francisco, consider getting involved with local advocacy groups that support vulnerable communities. Because each effort, big or small, contributes to the overall goal of achieving just and humane treatment for all.