An internal ICE document dated October 31, reviewed by The Intercept, reveals that ICE plans to hire private companies to find undocumented immigrants and pay them bonuses based on performance.
The Request for Information (RFI) outlines batches of 10,000 cases, with potential expansion to one million. Contractors must verify commercial and external databases, conduct physical surveillance at addresses, and submit time-stamped photographs. The priority is to identify the individual’s residence, or, if this is not possible, their workplace. The document also allows the use of standard surveillance technologies and automated skip-tracing tools, utilizing mobile phone and social media data.
The document describes a performance-based compensation structure. Bonuses may be given for identifying addresses on the first attempt or locating 90% of targets within a set timeframe. ICE would oversee the process while private operators carry out the work.
Under Donald Trump’s administration, immigration policy is a top security priority. This plan aims to expand operations without increasing internal staffing. By hiring contractors, ICE aims to utilize more resources, gain access to advanced tracking technologies, and expedite field operations.
John Sandweg, former acting ICE director, called private tracking or arrest by companies “illegal” in early 2025, but stated that ICE can legally purchase target location services.
Several experts have warned about the risks associated with this system. Giving private companies migrant tracking work could create a paid bounty hunting model. This may increase the chances of racial profiling, loss of rights, and unauthorized investigations.
Greater surveillance, including social networks, phone data, and bonuses, raises concerns about privacy and due process.
Snopes published an analysis addressing related rumors. While some claim ICE hires bounty hunters, no official evidence suggests that this system is currently in operation.
Legislative Initiatives to Regulate the Practice
States like Washington are proposing laws to ban bounty hunters and bail agents from civil immigration work.
This proposal supports the Trump administration’s strict immigration stance. It seeks stronger borders but avoids expanding federal staff. Yet, former officials such as John Sandweg insist mass arrests should not be given to private contractors.
Civil rights groups are deeply worried about the system’s ethics and legality. One advocacy group condemned turning immigration into a ‘paid sport’ in an open letter. They fear it could create a hunting mindset.
For these organizations, the project is a dangerous form of privatization. It threatens to blur the line between national security and individual freedoms.
ICE has not yet confirmed awarding any contracts. The project could face legal challenges and new laws. Several states are considering rules or bans on using private companies for tracking migrants.
If implemented, this system would be a major shift in U.S. immigration control. It raises crucial questions about striking a balance between security and rights.
