A group of 11 Democratic U.S. senators has raised serious human rights concerns over U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) use of full-body restraints, known as “The Wrap,” during deportation flights. The senators have called for immediate transparency, demanding a full accounting of ICE’s air operations and urging the agency to stop using the device until its policies are fully explained and scrutinized.
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Transparency and Accountability Demanded
The group, led by Senator Chris Van Hollen of Maryland, is calling on ICE to disclose detailed records of its air operations. They want to understand the extent of the use of the controversial Wrap restraints, which have been applied to detainees for hours on deportation flights dating back to 2020. Van Hollen criticized ICE for keeping the public in the dark about its practices. “They want to keep the public in the dark,” Van Hollen told the Associated Press, emphasizing the agency’s lack of transparency.
The Wrap: A Source of Controversy
The Wrap has been the focus of several lawsuits, with critics comparing its use to punishment and even torture. The device is intended to immobilize detainees but has been called into question for its potential abuse. Advocates claim that ICE is failing to track its usage as required by federal law, making it difficult to determine how many people are being subjected to these restraints. The concern is that the lack of oversight could allow for widespread mistreatment of detainees.
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Congressional Support for Action
In addition to the letter, Representative Delia Ramirez of Illinois has introduced a bill to curb ICE’s use of the Wrap. Ramirez expressed grave concern about the safety and dignity of detainees subjected to these restraints, highlighting the serious human rights implications of such practices. Her statement reflected the growing alarm among lawmakers who see the issue as one of both safety and ethical responsibility in immigration enforcement.
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DHS Defends Restraint Use
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), ICE’s parent agency, has not provided detailed responses to queries regarding the use of the Wrap. A spokesperson, Tricia McLaughlin, stated that ICE’s use of the device is in line with practices followed by other relevant authorities and adheres to legal standards. However, this defense has done little to quell concerns over the lack of transparency and oversight, with critics arguing that the practices are inhumane and outside the scope of acceptable law enforcement tactics.
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The Wrap’s Financials and Usage
Since 2015, the DHS has spent over $268,000 purchasing the Wrap from Safe Restraints Inc. This spending has continued through both the Obama and Trump administrations, with approximately 91% of the spending occurring under Trump’s tenure. Despite repeated requests for records documenting the usage of the Wrap, ICE has failed to provide any clear data. This lack of transparency adds to the growing sense of concern surrounding the agency’s practices and accountability.
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Fatal Cases Linked to Restraint Use
A key part of the controversy surrounding the Wrap is its connection to fatal cases across the U.S. In the last decade, at least a dozen deaths were linked to its use by local law enforcement. Autopsies revealed that the restraints played a significant role in the fatalities. These findings further fuel the argument that the device is not only dangerous but potentially lethal in certain situations.
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The Growing Outcry Against ICE Tactics
The continued use of The Wrap and other controversial tactics by ICE has sparked widespread criticism, with many advocates accusing the agency of operating without proper oversight or accountability. As Representative Ramirez put it, “ICE is acting outside of oversight or accountability. That can’t go on.” This growing concern among lawmakers and human rights organizations signals a significant shift in how ICE’s actions are being scrutinized at the federal level.