How to Use the ICE Detention Locator to Find a Loved One Quickly
Finding out that a family member or friend has been detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is an incredibly stressful experience. The uncertainty of not knowing where they are being held only adds to the anxiety. Fortunately, the U.S. government provides a tool to help you track them down.
The Online Detainee Locator System (ODLS) is the official public tool designed for this exact purpose. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through exactly how to use the ICE detention locator, what information you need, and what steps to take next.
What is the ICE Online Detainee Locator System?
The Online Detainee Locator System is a secure, public web-based tool managed by ICE. It allows family members, legal representatives, and the general public to locate individuals who are currently in immigration custody.
It is important to understand that this system does not track everyone. It only displays information for individuals who are currently detained or those who were released from ICE custody within the last 60 days.
Essential Information You Need Before Searching
To protect privacy and ensure accurate results, the locator system requires specific details. Before you open the online tool, you should gather as much information about the detained individual as possible.
There are two distinct ways to search the database, and each requires a different set of information.
Searching by Alien Registration Number (A-Number)
The quickest and most accurate way to find someone is by using their Alien Registration Number, commonly referred to as the A-Number.
The A-Number: This is a unique nine-digit number assigned to non-citizens.
Country of Birth: You must select the exact country of birth from a dropdown menu.
Formatting Note: If the A-Number has fewer than nine digits, you must add zeros at the beginning to fill it out.
Searching by Biographical Information
If you do not know the individual's A-Number, you can still search using their personal biographical details. However, this method requires exact spelling match to work effectively.
First Name: The exact first name as it appears on their official immigration documents.
Last Name: The exact last name, including any hyphens or spaces if applicable.
Country of Birth: The country where the individual was born.
Date of Birth: The exact month, day, and year of their birth.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using the ICE Locator
Once you have gathered the necessary information, you are ready to use the online system. Follow these straightforward steps to conduct your search.
Step 1: Access the Official System
Open your web browser and navigate directly to the official ICE Online Detainee Locator System website. Always ensure you are on a ".gov" domain to protect your personal data from phishing scams.
Step 2: Choose Your Search Method
On the homepage, you will see two tabs corresponding to the search methods mentioned above. Click on the tab that matches the information you currently have available.
Step 3: Enter the Details Carefully
Type the information into the required fields. Double-check your spelling, especially for names, as even a minor typo will result in a "Detainee Not Found" message.
Step 4: Review the Search Results
Click the search button. If the person is in the system, their location, status, and the contact information for the specific detention center will appear on your screen.
Limitations of the ICE Detention Locator
While the system is incredibly helpful, it does have specific limitations that you should be aware of. Not everyone who is arrested by immigration authorities will show up immediately.
Understanding these boundaries can save you unnecessary panic if your initial search comes up empty.
System Limitations to Keep in Mind
Age Restrictions: The system cannot display information for juveniles under the age of 18 due to strict privacy laws.
Time Delays: It can take up to 24 to 48 hours after an arrest for the system to update with a detainee's current location.
Historical Data: If a person was released or deported more than 60 days ago, their data will no longer appear in this public locator.
What to Do If You Can't Find Someone
If your search does not yield any results, it does not automatically mean the person has not been detained. There are several alternative steps you can take to locate them.
First, try variations of their name, as names are sometimes misspelled during the booking process. If that fails, consider the following actions:
Contact Local ICE Field Offices: Call the Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) field office closest to where the person was arrested.
Reach Out to Legal Aid Organizations: Non-profit immigration groups often have resources to help locate missing individuals within the system.
Check with Local Jails: Sometimes, ICE holds individuals temporarily in local county county jails before transferring them to a federal facility.
Next Steps After Locating a Detained Loved One
Finding the facility where your loved one is being held is just the first step. Once you know their location, you need to act quickly to understand their situation and provide support.
Your primary focus should be on establishing communication and securing professional legal guidance.
Contact the Detention Facility
Every facility has its own strict rules regarding phone calls, mail, and visitation. Call the center directly or visit their specific webpage to learn about their hours, bond procedures, and dress codes for visitors.
Consult an Immigration Attorney
Immigration law is highly complex and moves very quickly. It is critical to consult with a qualified immigration attorney immediately to discuss defense strategies, bond hearings, and deportation relief.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for a detainee to appear in the system?
It usually takes between 24 to 48 hours after the initial arrest for the ICE database to update with the person's location details.
Why does the locator say "Detainee Not Found"?
This message usually occurs due to a typo in the name, an incorrect A-Number, or because the individual is under 18 or has not been fully processed into the system yet.
Can I find someone who was deported last year using this tool?
No, the online system only retains data for individuals currently in custody or those who were released or removed within the past 60 days.
Is the ICE detention locator free to use?
Yes, the Online Detainee Locator System is a completely free public service provided by the U.S. government.
Can I search for a juvenile using the online locator?
No, for safety and privacy reasons, the system does not display information for individuals under the age of 18.