Last Friday, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that individuals who are detained by ICE and placed in deportation proceedings can no longer be released on bond while their case is pending. For nearly 30 years, bond has allowed people to live in their communities, support their families, and contribute to society while their legal right to remain is adjudicated.

A bond hearing isn’t a get-out-of-jail-free card. It’s basic due process. Think of someone you know who has lived in the United States for 10, 15, or even 20 years. A parent, neighbor, maybe even a coworker? Under this new ruling, if they get arrested by ICE and sent to immigration jail to fight their case, this judicial ruling says the government can detain these folks for months or even years. Not even the criminal legal system is that harsh.

In South Texas, there are two large adult immigration jails that can detain nearly 2,000 people and the government intends to open even larger warehouses to hold more immigrants. This decision strains an already overloaded system and worsens the already harsh conditions that people are forced to endure. Indefinite detention creates overwhelming pressure on these facilities, floods the courts with cases, and leaves more individuals without access to basic rights and necessities, whether it’s access to medication or the ability to call a lawyer or loved one.

As the last line of defense for so many, ProBAR knows that a decision like this comes with profound human consequences. With your support, we can continue to provide access to critical information, legal representation, and connections to resources here on the border. Get involved today.