A recent letter from 11 Democratic senators has raised significant concerns about the use of full-body restraints by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on deportation flights. The senators, led by Chris Van Hollen of Maryland, are demanding more transparency from ICE regarding its air operations and calling for an immediate halt to the use of the restraints known as the “Wrap.”
Concerns Over Full-Body Restraints
In their letter, the senators emphasized that the use of these restraints is shrouded in “near-total secrecy,” which poses serious human rights issues. Senator Van Hollen stated that the lack of transparency is problematic, suggesting that ICE aims to keep the public uninformed about its practices.
Investigation Findings
An Associated Press investigation highlighted multiple instances where ICE utilized the Wrap on detainees during deportation flights since 2020. Reports indicate that individuals can be restrained for long periods, sometimes lasting several hours. The Wrap has attracted scrutiny due to several federal lawsuits alleging that its misuse may constitute punishment or even torture.
Legal and Ethical Implications
- Federal laws require ICE to track the use of force, but there are concerns about compliance and transparency.
- Advocates express worries that the lack of data makes it difficult to assess the number of individuals subjected to the restraints.
- Representative Delia Ramirez is currently drafting legislation aimed at regulating the use of the Wrap.
Ramirez articulated that ICE’s practices compromise the safety and dignity of those in its custody. She criticized the agency’s accountability practices, stating that the existing operational methods cannot persist without oversight.
Financial Context
Financial records reveal that since late 2015, ICE has spent $268,523 on the Wrap, primarily during the Trump administrations, which accounted for about 91% of these expenditures. Despite numerous requests for documentation concerning the Wrap’s deployment, ICE has not provided information to clarify operational use.
Calls for Transparency
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which oversees ICE, has not addressed specific inquiries regarding the Wrap. A DHS spokesperson previously defended ICE’s practices, asserting they align with established legal standards.
Broader Context of Restraint Usage
The AP’s investigation also uncovered over a dozen fatalities in the past decade where local law enforcement or correctional facilities applied the Wrap, concluding that restraint played a role in those deaths. This trend raises alarms about the potential for harm associated with such methods.
Senator Van Hollen’s remarks encapsulate the senators’ sentiments: “When an organization like DHS doesn’t want transparency, it’s because they don’t want people to know what they’re doing.” The demand for accountability and transparency continues as the issue of full-body restraints comes under scrutiny.
