Nashville plumber detained by ICE despite legal work permit
Feb 17, 2026·Location: Nashville, TN
Country of origin: Mexico

Juan Martin Espindola Ramirez, a 27-year-old Nashville plumber with a legal work permit and no criminal record, was detained by ICE on February 17 while on his way to work. He has a newborn at home and was reportedly a crime victim granted a U visa; he was applying for a green card at the time of his arrest. The detention sparked community support and a GoFundMe fundraiser, while DHS issued a statement defending the arrest.
Sources
More incidents in Tennessee
- Son released after ICE traffic stop, mother still detained in AlabamaSep 24, 2026 · Sevierville, TN
- Chattanooga teen deported with family after ICE stop, says agents lied to themSep 16, 2026 · Chattanooga, TN
- ICE partnerships grow to 139 Tennessee agencies, though 11 sheriffs still not signed onSep 16, 2026 · Nashville, TN
- Mother deported after Memphis nightclub raid, four children left with grandmotherSep 15, 2026 · Memphis, TN
- Venezuelan mother of three detained by ICE in TennesseeSep 15, 2026 · TN
- Guatemalan man deported after Tennessee prison releaseSep 7, 2026 · Nashville, TN