An undocumented immigrant living in Florida faces a staggering $1.82 million fine for failing to leave the United States after receiving a removal order nearly two decades ago, according to documents obtained by CBS News. The fine, detailed in a May 9 notice from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), charges the woman $500 for each day she remained in the country since the order was issued in April 2005.
The 41-year-old mother of three, whose identity CBS News chose not to disclose, is now confronting one of the highest known civil fines imposed under immigration enforcement measures outlined by the 1952 Immigration and Nationality Act. The Act includes penalties for undocumented individuals who do not comply with removal orders, though historically these fines have rarely been enforced.
Michelle Sanchez, the immigration attorney representing the Honduran immigrant, expressed deep concern over ICE's recent enforcement tactics. Sanchez stated her client missed a court hearing in 2005, which led to the issuance of the removal order. Earlier this year, Sanchez filed a motion to reopen the woman's immigration case, asserting that her client's long-term residency, clean criminal record, and status as a parent to three U.S. citizen children would qualify her for lawful residency.
However, ICE informed Sanchez in March that they could not reopen the case due to a lack of prosecutorial discretion guidelines under the Trump administration. Despite changes allowing ICE attorneys discretion under the Biden administration, many such requests remain unresolved, leaving thousands in legal limbo.
Sanchez criticized ICE's increased use of financial penalties as an intimidation tactic. "ICE is terrorizing individuals without even having to go pick them up," Sanchez said, highlighting the extraordinary nature of the fine, which she argued exceeds lifetime earnings for many immigrants.
The ICE notice advises recipients that they may contest the fines, including requesting a personal interview. Still, Sanchez urged caution, advising individuals to consult legal counsel first, labeling such interactions with immigration officials as "going into the lion’s den."
The lawyer plans to appeal the fine, citing procedural fairness concerns, particularly that her client was never properly advised about the financial consequences of failing to comply with a deportation order.
In a statement responding to CBS News, an ICE spokesperson underscored that undocumented individuals who disregard immigration laws and removal orders face "legal consequences," including fines or imprisonment. The spokesperson recommended that undocumented immigrants utilize the CBP Home app to facilitate self-deportation.
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