The Trump administration's crackdown on immigration enforcement has intensified, with ICE agents conducting arrests in federal buildings. In Lower Manhattan, more than three dozen individuals were detained at 26 Federal Plaza, even when immigration judges had left their cases open. Many immigrants are now opting for virtual hearings out of fear of detention, indicating a chilling effect on their willingness to pursue legal proceedings. This atmosphere of fear has been acknowledged by judges who note an increase in web conference appearances due to security fears.
Many immigrants, hearing about the ICE dragnet, have begun avoiding appearing in person at their hearings, out of fear of being arrested.
Immigration Judge John Siemietkowski cradled his face in his hands, and told at least one immigrant, an Arabic speaker, to return to court that afternoon.
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