ICE Surge Hits Northwest Arkansas: 1,873 Arrests Fuel Fear, JP Calls For Dignity

KNWA/KFTA’s special report highlights rising ICE activity in Northwest Arkansas and the resulting fear in immigrant communities. Washington County Justice of the Peace Vladimir Rivera Lopez urges dignity and safety for all residents as data show 1,873 ICE apprehensions in Arkansas from Jan–July 2025. Local attorney Aaron Cash explains varied legal statuses (green cards, work permits, DACA, TPS) and warns that heightened enforcement can erode trust and deter crime reporting. The piece underscores community-level impacts amid expanding state cooperation with ICE.