ICE to stop reporting deaths of newly released detainees, internal memo says
The Washington Post • • general
Key Points:
- U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is under increased scrutiny to improve medical care following the deaths of 18 detainees in the first five months of 2026.
- Despite rising deaths in custody, ICE is narrowing its death reporting requirements, no longer mandating reports for deaths occurring within 30 days after detainees are released.
- Acting director David Venturella communicated this policy change to agency employees in a recent memo, as revealed by The Washington Post.
- The adjustment in reporting criteria may reduce transparency regarding the full scope of detainee deaths linked to ICE custody.