US ICE detention deaths surge under Trump, LGBTQ refugees report abuse

Since President Donald Trump returned to office in January 2025, the death rate in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention centers has more than doubled. Data shows about 50 migrant deaths up to early June 2026, a rise to one death per 1,630 detainees compared with one per 3,848 in the period 2009‑2024. Experts say many deaths involve cardiovascular issues, suicides and inadequate medical monitoring, raising concerns about the system’s ability to care for detainees with chronic conditions.

A separate account highlights the experience of Maksim Borisov, a 23‑year‑old gay Russian refugee detained at the Eloy Detention Center in Arizona for 13 months. Borisov and other LGBTQIA+ detainees reported pervasive homophobic, transphobic and physical abuse, with roughly one‑third describing sexual assault or harassment. Over 70% of detainees held nationwide have no criminal record. Borisov’s case underscores the broader vulnerability of LGBTQ asylum seekers within ICE facilities, where legal documents remain unreturned and protection is limited.

Human‑rights groups and civil‑rights organizations call for improved oversight, medical care, and protection against identity‑based abuse in U.S. immigration detention.