Congresswoman McClain Delaney Demands Transparency in Letter to ICE

Congresswoman McClain Delaney Demands Transparency in Letter to ICE

WASHINGTON D.C. -Today, Congresswoman McClain Delaney sent a letter to Patrick J. Lechleitner, Acting Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Congresswoman McClain Delaney requested an urgent tour of the ICE facility in Baltimore, Maryland to evaluate detention conditions and receive a briefing on how the agency plans and executes its operations.

"I write to express my serious concerns regarding your agency's operations throughout my District, and to formally schedule a tour of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in Baltimore, Maryland as soon as possible. While at the facility, I would like to speak with detainees and staff, and to personally inspect and evaluate detention conditions. I would also like to receive a briefing on how your agency plans and executes its operations throughout the state of Maryland. As a Member of Congress, I have a Constitutional duty to conduct oversight, and agencies have an obligation to cooperate and facilitate meetings," began Congresswoman McClain Delaney.

"This year, I have received thousands of messages from constituents sharing their fears and frustrations on behalf of their family members, neighbors, and communities. Reports have shown that your agency has unlawfully detained American citizens, deported individuals in stark violation of court orders, and undermined fundamental principles of due process that are accorded to all people, regardless of status, under the Constitution. My colleagues in Congress and I have heard from families that individuals in ICE detention centers are routinely denied access to counsel, medical care, and food that meets civil detention standards," Congresswoman McClain Delaney continued.

"I am requesting a full briefing on the number of enforcement actions executed in my district this year, as well as the number of arrests, voluntary and involuntary deportations, and releases. Please contact Andrew Donlon of my staff to arrange this meeting as soon as possible," Congresswoman McClain Delaney concluded.

The full text of the letter can be found hereand above.