Controversy Over Unreported Death of Former ICE Detainee

An immigrant who became ill while detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in New Jersey died days after his release from custody. The agency confirmed the death of Jose Chajon-Raxon, a Guatemalan, in late July, but stated it was not required to report his death due to a recent policy change.

Background on Jose Chajon-Raxon

New Jersey Representative Rob Menendez raised concerns about an unreported death at Delaney Hall detention center, highlighting the issue on August 3 after another immigrant’s death there. ICE confirmed to Newsweek that Chajon-Raxon, who was detained at Delaney Hall on July 18, experienced a medical emergency the next day.

“On July 19, a nurse responded to a medical emergency involving Chajon-Raxon,” an ICE spokesperson explained. “EMS was called immediately. Meanwhile, the nurse provided medical care, assuring him of safety.” Chajon-Raxon was then hospitalized and released from ICE custody on July 22. His subsequent death was not reported by ICE, as he was no longer in their custody.

The timeline and cause of Chajon-Raxon’s death remain unclear. Newsweek sought more information from the Northern Regional Medical Examiner’s Office.

Policy on Reporting Deaths

ICE requires notification of deaths within its detention centers. However, earlier this year, it ceased reporting deaths of those recently released from custody. “Once not in ICE custody, ICE doesn’t review or report subsequent deaths,” the spokesperson stated.

This policy has faced criticism for potentially decreasing transparency. Menendez accused ICE of avoiding accountability by releasing detainees to prevent reporting deaths.

Menendez commented, “ICE, consistent with the Trump Administration ethos, avoids public scrutiny.” He added that ICE reversed a policy to evade responsibility for post-release deaths.

Increase in Detainee Deaths

Deaths in ICE custody have increased under the Trump administration, drawing scrutiny. Reports from Human Rights Watch and Physicians for Human Rights highlighted 52 deaths in ICE custody from Trump’s second term’s start to June 2026, noting the decade-high mortality rate.

The rise in deaths is linked to overcrowding and inadequate medical care, critics argue. Organizations like the ACLU and Human Rights Watch demand better transparency and accountability.

ICE maintains its detainees receive adequate care and argues its standards exceed those of most U.S. prisons.

For more information, Newsweek editors Samantha Beech, Gray R. Thomas, and Anna Commander can be contacted.