Life can change in an instant. Imagine getting a phone call that a loved one has been detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), but you have no idea where they are. The uncertainty, fear, and confusion can be overwhelming. Knowing what to do next is crucial. Acting quickly can make a huge difference in protecting your loved one’s rights and ensuring they receive the legal help they need.
LaToya McBean Pompy, who immigrated to the United States herself, was inspired to help families unite by founding McBean Law. If you or loved one need assistance with denaturalization issues or visa applications, don’t hesitate to reach out to us today. You can contact us here or call (914) 898-9488 to schedule a private consultation with LaToya and her experienced immigration attorney team, who are ready to guide you through every step of the process.
Step 1: Use the ICE Detainee Locator Tool
Go to locator.ice.gov—this is ICE’s official detainee search system.
You can search for a detained person in two ways:
1. Search by A-Number
- An A-Number is a nine-digit identification number assigned to immigrants by USCIS or immigration courts.
- This number is often found on official immigration documents.
- You’ll also need to enter the person’s country of birth.
2. Search by Name and Biographical Information
If you don’t have their A-Number, you can search using:
- First and last name
- Country of birth
- Date of birth (month, day, and year)
The locator tool supports multiple languages, including Spanish, Creole, Chinese, and French.
Step 2: What If They Don’t Show Up in the Locator?
If you can’t find your loved one using the online detainee locator, try contacting the nearest ICE Field Office:
- Visit USA.gov/detained-by-ice
- Look up the ICE Field Office closest to where your loved one was last seen.
- Use the phone number provided or email to contact the office and request information.
To know more on how to find a loved one detained by ICE, you can watch Attorney LaToya McBean Pompy’s YouTube video, “How to Find Someone Picked Up by ICE in 2025: Step-by-Step Guide”.
