Only 2% of Deportations Ordered on 'Criminal Grounds' in February

New data shows the vast majority of migrants slated for deportation proceedings did not have criminal charges against them.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 2:52am

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An abstract, fragmented painting in muted blue, grey, and brown tones, depicting an overlapping, geometric figure representing an immigrant, conveying a sense of motion and uncertainty.New data reveals the majority of deportation orders are not based on criminal charges, contradicting the administration's rhetoric around 'criminal immigrants'.Harlingen Today

According to new data from the Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse of Syracuse University, only 2% of the deportation orders issued by the Department of Homeland Security in February were based on alleged criminal activity. The remaining 98% of the 'notice to appear' orders were filed for claimed violations of immigration rules such as illegal entry or overstaying a visa.

Why it matters

This data contradicts the Trump administration's rhetoric around deporting 'criminal immigrants,' as it shows the vast majority of deportation proceedings are targeting immigrants without criminal backgrounds. Migrant advocates have criticized the administration for arresting, detaining and deporting many people with no criminal histories.

The details

In February 2026, DHS filed just 741 deportation orders based on claims of alleged criminal activity, which was 2% of all 'notice to appear' orders issued that month. The remaining 98% were filed for claimed immigration violations like illegal entry or overstaying a visa. This is down from 821 NTAs filed based on criminal activity in February 2025.

  • In February 2026, DHS filed deportation orders.
  • In February 2025, DHS filed 821 NTAs based on criminal activity.

The players

Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse of Syracuse University

A data research organization that reported on the new deportation data.

Department of Homeland Security

The federal agency that filed the deportation orders in February 2026.

President Trump

The former president who made deporting those with criminal backgrounds a hallmark of his administration.

American Immigration Council

A migrant advocacy organization that criticized the administration's rhetoric around 'criminal immigrants.'

American Immigration Lawyers Association

A professional association that posted about immigration agents targeting small towns.

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What they’re saying

“It is clear that the president's thinly veiled threats of imposing mass deportation on 'criminal immigrants' are a promise to target all immigrants—and sometimes even U.S. citizens.”

— American Immigration Council

“Immigration agents aren't just targeting blue cities; they are coming to small towns, too, where some felt the relative quiet of their lives wouldn't be impacted by Donald Trump's plan for mass deportations.”

— American Immigration Lawyers Association

The takeaway

This data highlights the disconnect between the Trump administration's rhetoric around deporting 'criminal immigrants' and the reality that the vast majority of deportation proceedings are targeting immigrants without criminal backgrounds. It raises questions about the administration's true motivations and the impact on immigrant communities, both in large cities and small towns.