So far this fiscal year, ten individuals have tragically lost their lives while in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody.

This number is more than double that of last year and triple that of the year before, according to ICE data and news releases.

The first eight months of this fiscal year have seen more deaths than in the entire 12 months of five out of the six preceding years.

The only year with a higher total was 2020, during the peak of the Covid pandemic, when 21 people died in ICE custody.

ICE has emphasized its commitment to the safety and well-being of those in its custody, NBC News reported.

It assures that comprehensive medical care, including medical, dental, and mental health screenings, is provided promptly upon arrival and throughout detention.

The agency also highlighted its significant budget allocation for healthcare services, totaling nearly $324 million in fiscal year 2022.

Despite these assurances, concerns persist, particularly with two deaths occurring on consecutive days last week, as reported by ICE statements.

Written by B.C. Begley