York City, Pennsylvania, October 21, 2025
News Summary
A significant rise in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrests has been reported in York City, Pennsylvania, with data showing 537 apprehensions in just six months. This surge more than doubles the previous year’s total for the same period and is part of a statewide trend. Local officials, including Mayor Michael Helfrich, express concerns over the targeting of individuals without serious criminal records. Protests and community discussions are increasing as residents call for dialogue on the implications of intensified immigration enforcement.
York City, Pennsylvania is witnessing a significant rise in arrests by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) amid the Trump administration’s intensified immigration enforcement policies. Recent data reveals a total of 537 ICE apprehensions in southcentral Pennsylvania from January to July, an increase that more than doubles the annual total from 2024. This uptick is part of a larger statewide trend, with 3,031 ICE apprehensions reported during the same period, also more than double the numbers from the previous year.
Several recent cases highlight the implications of this crackdown on local communities. In May, ICE officers were drawn to the York County Central Booking center, where they arrested Fernando Hernandez-Garfias, a 43-year-old man undergoing processing following a local arrest related to a family dispute. Hernandez-Garfias was arrested for a physical altercation with his son, but ICE intervened on the same day, resulting in his detention.
Similarly, on the same day as Hernandez-Garfias’s arrest, Gregorio Perez-Canceco, a 39-year-old man, was taken into custody at his home in Conewago Township. Although Perez-Canceco had committed no new local crimes, ICE arrested him, indicative of the agency’s broad-reaching tactics. Another case involved Sabino Lemus-Carias, who was apprehended at the Franklin County Judicial Center after pleading guilty to a DUI; he was later deported to Guatemala. On Valentine’s Day, Noel Chinchilla-Avilez was arrested in downtown York City and subsequently deported to Honduras in April. These cases illustrate how individuals are often taken from their everyday environments, including homes, workplaces, courthouses, and local jails.
The recent surge in arrests has sparked concerns among local officials and residents. York City Mayor Michael Helfrich highlighted how individuals without criminal histories are increasingly targeted, citing the detention of long-time residents subjected to previously unenforced immigration supervision orders. This aggressive immigration campaign contradicts Trump’s initial promise to focus efforts primarily on violent criminals, as data indicates that many immigrants detained have no or only minor criminal offenses.
Legal experts have noted significant barriers for those detained, as many cannot afford legal representation to contest their cases. Furthermore, the Department of Homeland Security has reported nearly two million deportations since Trump’s inauguration, largely supported by the federal 287(g) program. This program permits local law enforcement agencies to act as immigration agents, with nearly 40 agencies throughout Pennsylvania participating.
In response to this situation, public protests have erupted, exemplifying the community’s discontent about the perceived overreach of federal immigration policies. Recent demonstrations in York City showcased rising frustrations regarding the Trump administration’s stance on immigration enforcement, leading to calls for greater community dialogue on the effects of these detentions and removals, with discussions specifically scheduled for November 6.
Meanwhile, the geographical impact of ICE arrests reveals that approximately 190 arrests occurred in York County, while Dauphin County recorded about 134, Franklin County saw close to 70, and Cumberland County about 60.
The demographic makeup of those apprehended largely includes immigrants from Central America, South America, the Caribbean, Africa, Asia, and Europe, further highlighting the diverse communities affected by these immigration policies.
FAQ
What are the current statistics for ICE arrests in Southcentral Pennsylvania?
There have been 537 ICE apprehensions in southcentral Pennsylvania between January and July, more than double the annual total from 2024.
How many ICE arrests have occurred statewide in Pennsylvania?
There were 3,031 ICE apprehensions statewide during the first half of 2024, which is also more than double the numbers from the previous year.
Who are some individuals affected by ICE arrests in York City?
The individuals affected include Fernando Hernandez-Garfias, Gregorio Perez-Canceco, Sabino Lemus-Carias, and Noel Chinchilla-Avilez.
What has been the community response to increased ICE arrests?
Public protests have erupted, with rising frustrations over federal immigration policies, and community discussions are set for November 6 to address these issues.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| ICE Apprehensions (2024) | 3,031 statewide in Pennsylvania |
| York County Arrests | 190 arrests |
| Dauphin County Arrests | 134 arrests |
| Franklin County Arrests | 70 arrests |
| Cumberland County Arrests | 60 arrests |
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Additional Resources
- York Dispatch: ICE arrests in York and Lancaster counties rose sharply in 2025, data shows
- York Daily Record: Long legal story behind ICE arrest in York, PA, shown in a viral video
- Fox43: York man reportedly detained by ICE, according to Mayor Helfrich
- Times Union: ICE arresting immigrants in New York
- Wikipedia: Immigration and Customs Enforcement
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
