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Lester P.S. and Ismaray P.T.: Two Cuban pastors detained by ICE during routine immigration appointment in Texas

Lester Pérez Sánchez and Ismaray Paz Torres, a Cuban pastor couple who run a tire repair shop, were detained during what they thought was a routine appointment and remain held in Raymondville.

Mar 31, 2026Harlingen, TXCountry of origin: Cuba

Lester P.S. and Ismaray P.T.: Two Cuban pastors detained by ICE during routine immigration appointment in Texas
Photo via CiberCuba

Lester Pérez Sánchez and Ismaray Paz Torres, a Cuban pastor couple who arrived in the U.S. in 2021 seeking asylum and hold I-220A status, were detained by ICE on March 31, 2026, during what they believed was a routine supervision appointment in Harlingen, Texas. Both hold work permits and operate a tire repair workshop in Ingleside. They have been held at El Valle Detention Center in Raymondville since their arrest. The Ingleside community, including the mayor, has rallied for their release.

Timeline

Mar 31, 2026—Both pastors detained by ICE during routine supervision appointment in Harlingen, Texas and transported to El Valle Detention Center in Raymondville
Mar 31, 2026—Ingleside community mobilized for their release, including mayor writing letter on their behalf
2021—Lester Pérez Sánchez and Ismaray Paz Torres arrived in the U.S. from Cuba seeking asylum and were granted I-220A status
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