DHS detention inspections changed as ICE facilities and population grew

The Government Accountability Office said in a report published Thursday 05 November 2026 that Department of Homeland Security detention facility inspections changed as the number of immigration detention facilities and detained population increased.

From April 2025 to April 2026, following a January 2025 Executive Order, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement added over 40 detention facilities that detain noncitizens for over 72 hours. The average daily population of detained noncitizens grew by over 50 percent, to 61,817 individuals, over the timeframe.

From fiscal year 2024 to July 2026, three of the four DHS entities that conducted inspections changed the frequency of inspections or stopped conducting them. The GAO said some entities decreased or increased inspection frequency.

ICE relies on DHS inspections to identify facility deficiencies and ensure compliance with detention standards. GAO said inspection frequency decreased in some cases, ICE relied more on self-inspections, and inspection processes changed.

GAO said ICE had not used evidence such as deficiency data and contract compliance performance information to determine the effects of the changes on facility conditions. The report said using that evidence and applying the results could improve oversight and help facilities provide sound conditions and care for noncitizens.

ICE is authorized to detain noncitizens apprehended for violations of immigration law pending removal proceedings or execution of a removal order. Its guidance requires detention in the most humane manner possible. ICE uses various DHS entities within and outside ICE to assess compliance with detention standards. Inspections identify deficiencies in medical care, food service and other areas.

GAO was asked to review compliance with detention standards and related oversight. The report examined changes in DHS inspections and ICE’s use of evidence to inform oversight. GAO reviewed oversight documentation, analyzed ICE data on detention facilities and the average daily population, and interviewed officials responsible for oversight within DHS.