San Diego, California, November 26, 2025
A federal lawsuit has been filed in San Diego, California, challenging the arrests of individuals during routine check-ins with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The lawsuit claims these detentions violate due process rights and have significantly increased since October 2025. It was initiated on behalf of three individuals, including Chancely Fanfan, highlighting concerns over the treatment of individuals previously deemed fit for release but now facing unexpected detentions. The case may set critical precedents for immigration enforcement and due process rights.
San Diego, California
Federal Lawsuit Challenges ICE Arrests During Routine Check-Ins
San Diego, California – A federal lawsuit filed in the Southern District of California is challenging the recent arrests of individuals during routine check-ins with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in San Diego. The suit alleges that these detentions violate due process rights and have increased since early October 2025.
Details of the Lawsuit
The lawsuit was initiated by the Center for Immigration Law and Policy and the Center for Human Rights & Constitutional Law on behalf of three individuals, including Chancely Fanfan, a Haitian man with no criminal history. Fanfan was detained on October 20, 2025, after attending a scheduled immigration court hearing and subsequent ICE check-in. He had complied with all previous court requirements and check-ins since his arrival in the U.S. last year.
The plaintiffs argue that individuals previously deemed fit for release are being detained again without due process, often after being unexpectedly summoned to ICE offices. The lawsuit seeks class certification, potentially extending relief to others arrested under similar circumstances.
Background Context
These detentions appear to have escalated since early October and may involve over 100 individuals, many of whom had their immigration cases reopened after years of inactivity. The Department of Homeland Security has not commented on the matter. A federal judge will determine the legality of these detentions and whether the three named petitioners should be released.
Related Legal Actions
In addition to the current lawsuit, civil rights groups in San Francisco have filed a class action lawsuit against the Trump administration, accusing ICE of unlawful and inhumane tactics during courthouse arrests. The lawsuit claims that ICE officials detain immigrants in “punitive and inhumane” conditions, steamrolling their rights to due process.
Implications
The outcome of these legal actions could have significant implications for immigration enforcement practices, particularly concerning the treatment of individuals during routine check-ins and courthouse appearances. The cases highlight ongoing debates over due process rights and the balance between immigration enforcement and individual freedoms.
Key Features of the Lawsuit
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | San Diego, California |
| Legal Action | Federal lawsuit filed in the Southern District of California |
| Defendants | U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) |
| Plaintiffs | Three individuals, including Chancely Fanfan |
| Allegations | Unlawful detentions during routine check-ins, violating due process rights |
| Legal Basis | Detentions after unexpected summons to ICE offices without due process |
| Current Status | Awaiting federal judge’s decision on legality of detentions and potential class certification |
| Related Actions | Similar lawsuit filed in San Francisco challenging ICE courthouse arrests |
| Potential Implications | Impact on immigration enforcement practices and due process rights |
What is the main issue addressed in the lawsuit?
The lawsuit challenges the recent arrests of individuals during routine check-ins with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in San Diego, alleging violations of due process rights.
Who are the plaintiffs in the lawsuit?
The plaintiffs include Chancely Fanfan, a Haitian man with no criminal history, and two other individuals who were detained after attending scheduled immigration court hearings and subsequent ICE check-ins.
What is the legal basis for the lawsuit?
The lawsuit argues that individuals previously deemed fit for release are being detained again without due process, often after being unexpectedly summoned to ICE offices, violating their constitutional rights.
What is the current status of the lawsuit?
A federal judge will determine the legality of these detentions and whether the three named petitioners should be released. The lawsuit seeks class certification, potentially extending relief to others arrested under similar circumstances.
Are there similar legal actions in other areas?
Yes, civil rights groups in San Francisco have filed a class action lawsuit against the Trump administration, accusing ICE of unlawful and inhumane tactics during courthouse arrests, claiming violations of due process rights.
What are the potential implications of these legal actions?
The outcomes could significantly impact immigration enforcement practices, particularly concerning the treatment of individuals during routine check-ins and courthouse appearances, highlighting debates over due process rights and immigration enforcement.
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