ICE yesterday announced the introduction of a self-deportation pilot program for fugitive aliens called 'Operation Scheduled Departure.' Fugitive aliens are illegal aliens who are under court order to leave the United States but took flight after being released on their own recognizance. The Washington Post reports the program will give these absconders 90 days to put their affairs in order and in some cases leave with some family members. By turning themselves in, they will avoid the risk of being caught and jailed.

ICE estimates that up to 500,000 of the 572,000 fugitive aliens living in the country in violation of court orders could be eligible. Eligibility would be limited to fugitive aliens with no criminal record who do not otherwise pose a threat to their communities. ...