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 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.
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Sources
- US citizen says she was detained by CBP for 3 days after wrong turn
Newsweek·Aug 21, 2025·archived copy
- US citizen wrongfully arrested by border patrol in Arizona held for nearly 10 days
The Guardian·Apr 21, 2025·archived copy
- U.S. citizen in Arizona detained by immigration officials for 10 days
- Pueblo Chieftain
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