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Suit says ICE kept immigrants' work permits and phones months after detention

Seven people held in ICE custody sued after the agency failed to return seized property, including ID documents, phones and car keys, more than four months after their release, costing them work and safety.

Oct 13, 2026

Suit says ICE kept immigrants' work permits and phones months after detention
Photo via ACLU of DC

Seven plaintiffs who were detained in ICE custody for civil immigration purposes filed suit against the U.S. Department of Homeland Security after the agency failed to return their seized property, including Employment Authorization Documents, cell phones, and car keys, more than four months after their release. The lawsuit, brought on behalf of the named plaintiffs and a class of similarly situated individuals, alleges the losses cost them work opportunities and left them afraid to go out in public without identification for fear of being detained again. The case argues ICE has adopted a de facto policy of failing to return property once its legitimate governmental interest in the items has expired, violating the Fourth Amendment and the Administrative Procedure Act.

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