Death of Immigrant in ICE Custody Sparks Controversy

An immigrant detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in New Jersey fell ill and later died after being hospitalized, the agency reported. Jose Chajon-Raxon, from Guatemala, passed away in late July, but ICE did not report his death due to a recent policy change regarding notifications of former detainee deaths.

Details Surrounding Chajon-Raxon’s Death

New Jersey Representative Rob Menendez raised concerns about an unreported death at Delaney Hall detention center, following another death at the facility. ICE confirmed Chajon-Raxon’s identity to Newsweek, stating he was an undocumented immigrant processed into Delaney Hall on July 18 after his arrest.

On July 19, Chajon-Raxon experienced a medical emergency, displaying seizure-like symptoms. A nurse attended to him and EMS was called. First responders transported him to University Hospital in Newark, where he was released from ICE custody on July 22. ICE was not informed of his death.

Information about the cause of death or exact date remains unclear, with Newsweek seeking details from the local medical examiner’s office.

ICE Reporting Policies Under Scrutiny

ICE maintains it is not required to monitor deaths occurring after detainees leave custody. The policy change received criticism, especially from Democrats who argued it reduces transparency. Menendez accused ICE of releasing individuals to avoid reporting their deaths.

Previously, a Biden-era policy mandated ICE to report deaths even after custody release. Menendez suggested ICE avoids accountability and public scrutiny by reversing this policy.

“ICE is determined to avoid public scrutiny and accountability for its failures,” Menendez wrote. “The American people deserve transparency.”

Concerns Over Rising Detention Deaths

Deaths in ICE custody have increased under President Trump’s expanded detention measures. Human Rights Watch reported 52 deaths from January 2025 to June 2026, the highest in over a decade. Critics link overcrowding and inadequate medical care to preventable fatalities, urging greater transparency.

ICE counters, claiming comprehensive care is provided to detainees, emphasizing high detention standards. They insist detainees receive proper nutrition, medical treatment, and communication opportunities with family and lawyers.

For further inquiries, contact Newsweek editors Samantha Beech, Gray R. Thomas, and Anna Commander.