ICE Arrests In Virginia Soar — Spike In Non‑Criminal Detentions, Asylum Grants Plummet

An analysis of Deportation Data Project FOIA records shows ICE made 4,264 arrests in Virginia from January–July 2025 — nearly three times 2024 levels — with a national peak in June and a July decline. A growing share of those arrested had no criminal convictions or pending charges, and asylum approval rates in Virginia courts fell from about 50% in mid‑2024 to just over 20% by mid‑2025. The pattern, corroborated by Axios and NBC Washington, raises legal and policy concerns and warrants follow‑up reporting.