DHS Resumes Deportations to Haiti

Newark, NJ- After temporarily halting deportations of unauthorized Haitian immigrants, the Department of Homeland Security announced on November 23, 2016, they would resume deporting Haitians and plan on expanding their efforts.

In a recent press release, DHS Secretary Jeh Johnson announced that deportation flights to Haiti have resumed, and his agency is planning on expanding removals after a temporary delay. So far, Immigrations and Customs Enforcement says they removed 200 unauthorized immigrants from Haiti in recent weeks.

On September 22, the DHS said they would focus efforts to remove thousands of Haitian immigrants who entered the U.S. without approval. After that announcement, Hurricane Matthew struck Haiti, killing hundreds and causing widespread destruction, compelling DHS to halt deportations until the island could recover from the storm. The agency said deportations would be focused on Haitians who have been convicted of crimes or those who gained unlawful entry at a border crossing.

Haitian immigrants who were granted temporary protected status don’t have to worry about deportation. These immigrants will be allowed to remain in the U.S. and be granted work authorization until their status expires on July 22, 2017, according to a DHS press release.

Sec. Johnson said in the November 23^rd press release that immigration officials will “significantly expand” deportation efforts following a recent wave of Haitian migration. Recently, Immigration and Customs Enforcement Director Sarah Saldana testified before Congress that thousands of Haitian immigrants recently entered Mexico. Officials in Mexico notified U.S. authorities because they believe the immigrants are heading to the U.S.-Mexico border to enter unlawfully or apply for asylum.

Sec. Johnson said he instructed border patrol officers and immigration officials to take whatever steps they need to keep up with the influx of Haitian immigrants at the Southern Border. He also instructed immigration officials to secure additional detention space for Haitian immigrants who are apprehended.

In one DHS announcement, Sec. Johnson said his agencies would take steps to conduct deportations humanely and avoid unnecessary intrusions. If you are an immigrant and you are facing deportation, you may be able to challenge removal. If you would like to see how you can fight deportation, contact my Newark office at 973-453-2009 or my Jersey City office at (201) 713-2227, and set up a case evaluation. I can determine if you will be able to successfully challenge deportation and remain in the U.S. by examining the facts in your case and exploring every possible option.