With shaking hands, Joseph scribbled down four phone numbers on a sheet of paper, as he prepared to go to his annual check-in with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. He knew he might not return home, and he wanted the numbers of his girlfriend, his pastor, a friend and his eldest daughter in case he was arrested.

The 52-year-old Venezuelan immigrant, who asked that his full name not be used because of his lack of permanent legal status, said he had ruminated for months about what might happen during the annual check-in, which is usually just a review of documents. He had only slept four hours in the two days ahead of the appointment.

“I’m trying to block all the bad thoughts, but deep inside I’m still afraid,” said Joseph, who has resided in the United States for more than 20 year

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