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ICE sets up self-deportation program through Aug. 22

McClatchy News Service

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, established a toll-free number Tuesday to begin a program for certain illegal immigrants to turn themselves in for self-deportation.

The program, dubbed Operation Scheduled Departure, will run until Aug. 22. The number to get information about the experimental program is (866) 880-6344. The line is open between 5 a.m. and 3 p.m. PST.

Only "fugitive aliens," people who have final deportation orders issued by a judge -- and who have no criminal record are eligible, said Virginia Kice, an ICE spokeswoman.

In exchange for turning themselves in, volunteers will avoid detention and be given but not guaranteed up to 90 days to prepare to leave.

"They may have a house or property to sell," Kice said.

Out of a list of 572,000 fugitives, ICE estimates, about 535,400 people could qualify.