In a dramatic shift at the U.S.-Mexico border, President Trump's administration has implemented stringent measures to address illegal immigration.
According to Breitbart, the administration has achieved a remarkable 99.99 percent reduction in "catch and release" cases, with only 20 migrants being released into the U.S. interior during February 2025, compared to approximately 200,000 in December 2023 under the Biden administration.
The stark decline in catch-and-release numbers represents a significant victory for Trump's border security agenda. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized that the administration's tough stance on illegal immigration has successfully deterred unauthorized border crossings, marking a fundamental shift in border control policy.
The administration's approach has dramatically altered the likelihood of migrants being released into the United States after apprehension. Statistical analysis shows that the chances of catch and release have plummeted from 778 per 1,000 border crossers in December 2023 to merely 2 per 1,000 in February 2025.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated:
You can't get much better than that … thanks to President Trump, operational control of the border is becoming a reality. Illegal aliens are finally getting the blunt message: If you cross the border illegally, you will be swiftly deported and never return to the United States of America.
The administration's success stems from a comprehensive strategy focusing on strict enforcement and expanded detention capabilities. These measures have contributed to the dramatic reduction in unauthorized entries and subsequent releases.
The Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) system currently operates at maximum capacity, housing approximately 48,000 illegal aliens in various facilities across the country. This represents a significant increase in detention capabilities compared to previous years.
Plans are underway to further expand the system's capacity through the reopening of a facility in Newark, New Jersey. This expansion will add 1,000 additional beds to accommodate detained individuals awaiting processing or deportation.
The administration views these detention facilities as crucial components of their enforcement strategy. They serve as both deterrents to potential border crossers and practical solutions for managing apprehended individuals.
The dramatic reduction in catch-and-release statistics demonstrates the effectiveness of Trump's hardline immigration policies. These policies prioritize immediate deportation over temporary release into the United States.
Immigration enforcement officials attribute the success to a combination of strict border control measures and enhanced detention capabilities. The approach has fundamentally altered the dynamics of illegal border crossings.
The Trump administration's border control initiatives have resulted in an unprecedented 99.99 percent reduction in catch and release cases at the U.S.-Mexico border. February 2025 saw only 20 migrants released into the U.S. interior, marking a dramatic decrease from the approximately 200,000 releases recorded in December 2023 under the previous administration.
These changes stem from a comprehensive strategy combining enhanced detention capabilities, strict enforcement policies, and clear messaging about the consequences of illegal entry. The administration continues to expand its detention facilities, with plans for additional capacity in Newark, New Jersey, demonstrating its commitment to maintaining these heightened enforcement levels.
