Children Zip-Tied at San Antonio Immigration Court: A Disturbing New Chapter in Immigration Enforcement

On May 29, 2025, a deeply troubling incident occurred at the San Antonio Immigration Court: at least three migrant children, aged between 9 and 12, were detained and zip-tied alongside their adult relatives, despite an immigration judge having dismissed their case. This event, captured on video by an attorney and shared during a Catholic Legal Immigration Network Inc. (CLINIC) conference, has sparked outrage among immigration attorneys and advocacy groups. 

Child's hands cuffed in zip ties

A New Low in Immigration Enforcement

The children were taken into custody by plainclothes agents who identified themselves as FBI—a departure from standard immigration enforcement procedures. The use of zip ties on young children, especially in a legal setting where their case had been dismissed, raises serious concerns about the methods employed by enforcement agencies. 

Erosion of Trust in the Legal System

This incident is not isolated. For over a week, immigrants attending scheduled hearings at the San Antonio Immigration Court have been detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers immediately after their cases were dismissed. Such actions undermine the integrity of the legal process and instill fear in communities seeking justice. KSAT

Policy Shifts and Their Implications

These events follow recent policy changes that have expanded expedited removals and rescinded previous protections against arrests in “sensitive locations” like courts. Such shifts have led to increased fear among migrant communities and concern over the treatment of vulnerable individuals, particularly children. MySA

Legal and Ethical Concerns

The legality of detaining individuals immediately after court proceedings, especially in cases where the court has dismissed the case, is under scrutiny. Critics argue that such tactics erode trust in the legal system and may violate due process rights. KSAT

Call to Action

As an immigration attorney, I urge policymakers, enforcement agencies, and the public to reflect on the implications of these actions. The treatment of children in this manner is unacceptable and calls for immediate review and reform of current enforcement practices.

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