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Jose H.: U.S. citizen held 10 days despite birth certificate proof

Jose Hermosillo, 19, a U.S. citizen from Albuquerque, was held 10 days at Florence Correctional Center after seeking help during a medical emergency. A judge dismissed the case and he was freed.

Apr 17, 2025Tucson, ArizonaCountry of origin: Mexico

Jose H.: U.S. citizen held 10 days despite birth certificate proof
Photo via Arizona Public Media

Jose Hermosillo, a 19-year-old U.S. citizen from Albuquerque, was detained by Border Patrol agents near Nogales, Arizona, on April 8 after approaching an officer for help during a medical emergency. He was held for 10 days at Florence Correctional Center on suspicion of illegally entering the country, despite being a U.S. citizen. The Department of Homeland Security claimed Hermosillo said he had crossed the border without authorization and was a Mexican citizen, but Hermosillo disputes this, saying he cannot read and did not understand the document he signed. His family searched for him and ultimately provided his birth certificate and social security card to officials. A magistrate judge dismissed the case on April 17, and Hermosillo was released that night.

Timeline

Apr 17, 2025—Magistrate judge dismissed the case after family provided birth certificate and social security card
Apr 17, 2025—Hermosillo released from Florence Correctional Center after 10 days in custody
Apr 8, 2025—Jose Hermosillo detained by Border Patrol agents near Nogales, Arizona, after seeking help during a medical emergency
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