In a record breaking year for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), 392,862 individuals were deported from the United States over the last fiscal year. Of that number, 195,772 were convicted criminals. In the previous fiscal year, about 389,000 individuals were deported.

In particular, the increase in criminal deportations stemmed from the DHS “Secure Communities” program, which allows local law enforcement to check the immigration status of each individual booked into jail. Locally speaking, Prince William County is part of the Secure Communities program whereas Arlington County voted, on September 28, 2010, to withdraw itself from the program.

Immigration issues are front and center in key midterm elections across the country. The growing number of local jurisdictions attempting to take immigration issues into their own hands demonstrates the growing frustration over a broken federal immigration system. Results of the November elections will help determine whether comprehensive immigration reform is a possibility during the remainder of President Obama’s tenure.

If you or a loved one require legal assistance with an immigration law matter, contact us to schedule your initial consultation with an experienced immigration lawyer today. Our immigration attorneys represent clients throughout Virginia, Maryland and the District of Columbia.