ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) is ending a program started under the Trump administration that investigated crimes committed by undocumented immigrants. The Victim of Immigration Crime Engagement (VOICE) office was opened in April 2017 through a Presidential executive order. The office focused on linking crime with immigration, following Trump administration policies.
The Biden administration is targeting ICE law enforcement activities on immigrants who pose a national security, border security or public safety risk.
“Providing assistance to society’s most vulnerable is a core American value. All people, regardless of their immigration status, should be able to access victim services without fear. This administration is committed to providing a reliable source of information and guidance for all victims irrespective of their status.”
– DHS Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas
On June 11 the Biden administration announced a new program that will support all victims regardless of immigration status, and not focus solely on crimes committed by immigrants, the Victims Engagement and Services Line (VESL). The new program will provide victim assistance support:
• guidance on visas for immigrants who are victims of crimes or human trafficking
•a hotline that will provide callers with multiple options, such as the ability to report abuse in ICE detention,
• a system for push notifications about custody status and case outcome
If you are an immigrant or non-citizen who was the victim of a crime, or you are charged with a crime, the attorneys at Godoy Law Office can assist your case. Our immigration lawyers understand the immigration consequences for both victims of a crime and of criminal convictions.
Call us today at 630-912-0322.
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AREAS WE SERVE: Godoy Law Office serves the entire Chicago, Illinois area including DuPage, Cook, Kane, Will, and Lake Counties
