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Understanding ERO – Enforcement and Removal Operations

Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) is a key directorate of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) responsible for upholding immigration law both within and beyond U.S. borders. ERO’s primary mission is to identify, arrest, detain, and remove individuals who violate immigration laws, especially those posing a threat to public safety or national security. Its operations focus on targeting convicted criminal undocumented immigrants, gang members, and individuals who have re-entered the country illegally after prior deportation.

ERO’s responsibilities extend beyond arrests and deportations. The agency manages the full spectrum of immigration enforcement, including domestic transportation, detention, bond management, and supervised release. ERO also oversees alternatives to detention programs, ensuring compliance with immigration proceedings while maintaining humanitarian considerations. Through coordination with INTERPOL, ERO assists in locating and apprehending foreign fugitives who have committed crimes abroad but are hiding in the U.S., further reinforcing global public safety efforts.

Individuals detained or charged under ERO operations may face serious consequences, including detention, deportation, and long-term bans on re-entering the United States. Those who have previously been deported and unlawfully re-enter the country could face federal criminal charges, with penalties that may include imprisonment and additional fines. Once a removal order is issued by a federal immigration judge, ERO is responsible for carrying out that removal—often to one of over 150 countries with which the U.S. maintains repatriation agreements.

Anyone facing action from ERO should seek immediate legal assistance from an experienced immigration or criminal defense attorney. These cases can be complex, involving criminal components that impact an individual’s immigration status, future travel, and eligibility for relief. A qualified attorney can help challenge the grounds for detention, file appeals, or explore options for bond or asylum where applicable. Understanding one’s rights and responding swiftly to ERO proceedings is essential to navigating the U.S. immigration enforcement system effectively. Contact our Boston, Massachusetts defense team today for a confidential consultation. Your freedom, future, and reputation are on the line. At Dhar Law, LLP, our firm has extensive experience defending individuals international criminal charges from the ERO. 

Contact us today at 617-880-6155 to schedule a confidential consultation and learn how we can help you.

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Have you or a family member been charged or arrested? It’s important not to make mistakes early on in your case. Download our PDF on the top 3 things to do to help your defense or if you have been arrested by the State Police or FBI or you are the subject of an FBI Arrest Warrant.

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Heading up the firm, Vikas Dhar is widely recognized as a leader in the New England legal community. An accomplished business litigator and a “Top 40 Under 40” criminal defense attorney, he has also been honored as a New England Super Lawyer/Rising Star in the area of White-Collar Criminal Defense for each of the past six years by Boston Magazine.

Bad things can unexpectedly happen to good people since not every choice they make can be blessed with moral clarity. You didn’t expect this rainy day, but we have the biggest umbrella. Call us – we will get through this together.

— Vikas Dhar
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