Teachers, nurses, pastors, and coaches detained or deported
Stories describe teachers, nurses, pastors, and other professionals detained or deported across multiple U.S. states, including arrests at airports (LAX, Logan, SFO), traffic stops, workplaces, and homes, with some held in facilities like Adelanto, Aurora, and McFarland, and deportations to Haiti, Ghana, and Jamaica despite pending legal cases. First documented in January 2025, this pattern became recurring by July 2025, peaking in April 2026, and has held a roughly steady share of reported cases since.”}, placeholder}(); wait this is invalid, need to produce correct JSON.}}]}{
First documented Jan 2025, recurring since Jul 2025.
Share of each month's well-documented stories, Jan 2025 to Oct 2026. Volume is not shown: coverage grew over the record, shares did not have to.
146 stories in 30 states. What accompanies this practice →
“It was a federal invasion and terror campaign on our streets. The behavior of these masked thugs was horrific … they were ripping human beings out of families.”
Arizona
California
Monica R.: Nurse detained 15 days by ICE during Disneyland tripMonica Ryadi, a 30-year-old nurse who fled religious persecution in Indonesia as a child, was detained by ICE at LAX in front of her young son and held two weeks before a judge ordered her release.“He experienced the whole thing. Me being cuffed and had to walk away with these groups of men God knows where.” — Monica RyadiLos Angeles, CA · Oct 15, 2026 · 6ABC, Philadelphia Inquirer, CBS News +9
Jing Z.: Irvine special education teacher detained at LAX, transferred to Adelanto ICE facilityJing Zhao, an Irvine special education teacher who helped children with developmental needs, was surrounded by masked agents at LAX and placed in an unmarked van, later transferred to Adelanto detention center.Los Angeles, CA · Oct 6, 2026 · Hindustan Times, International Business Times, ABC7 +4
Mendota mechanic and grandfather detained by ICE picking up parts in FresnoA Mendota mechanic and grandfather who owned his own shop was detained by ICE in Fresno while buying car parts, then transferred to a McFarland detention facility.Fresno, CA · Oct 5, 2026 · The Fresno Bee, Bakersfield Now
Kwadwo: Respiratory therapist chained by ICE at SFO, held over two monthsKwadwo, a 57-year-old respiratory therapist in Daly City for eight years, was chained and arrested at a San Francisco airport gate over an expired visa. He remains held while appealing his case.“It feels like they’re just trying to find people to fill up prisons. It feels like the system is failing us.” — Kwadwo's sonSan Francisco, CA · Sep 30, 2026 · Mission Local, GhanaWebbers, Abolish ICE
Maureen N.: Bay Area nurse, mother of two, deported to Kenya after ICE check-inMaureen Wanjiru Ngure, a 38-year-old nurse and mother of two in Concord, was detained at a routine check-in after 20 years in the U.S. and deported to Kenya in August.“I felt depressed, I felt confused, I was asking the question: why,” — Maureen Wanjiru NgureSan Francisco, CA · Sep 14, 2026 · Florida Public Interest Research Group, KQED, Idaho Public Press +2- Jesus Q.F.: Father of four U.S. citizens detained by ICE at work permit appointmentA construction business owner and father of four, in the country since 2000, was detained again at a routine biometrics appointment. A judge ordered his release within 24 hours.Riverside, CA · Jul 6, 2026 · CourtListener
Janeth: Award-winning Honduran nursing assistant loses job when TPS is revokedJaneth, a 50-year-old Honduran nursing assistant with 23 years of experience and seven national awards, lost her job overnight when the government ended her country's protected status.San Francisco, CA · Jun 23, 2026 · The Guardian, Eastern New Mexico News, The Guardian Wings
DACA teacher put on unpaid leave as renewal stalls over five monthsA Central Valley teacher with DACA status was placed on unpaid leave after her work permit renewal stalled for over five months. Thousands of DACA recipients, including an estimated 6,784 California educators, face similar delays.California · Apr 23, 2026 · EdSource, KSN, NBC DFW
Rubilez B.: Santa Maria man's 5-year-old daughter held 20 hours in ICE detentionA Santa Maria father's five-year-old daughter was freed after 20 hours in ICE detention at a Texas airport. Her mother, a Venezuelan doctor in medical residency, remains detained after officials called her documents invalid.Santa Maria, CA · Apr 15, 2026 · LinkedIn, Archy Newsy, American Medical Writers Association
Leonardo M.: U.S. citizen rammed by ICE in Simi Valley, hospitalized while handcuffedLeonardo Espartaco Martinez, a U.S. citizen and community watcher, was hospitalized after agents rammed his minivan and dragged him out in Simi Valley, injuring his knees, shoulders and wrists. It was the third time his vehicle was rammed.Simi Valley, CA · Mar 10, 2026 · LA Taco, Left News
Axel P.: Ex-LA County foster youth advocate self-deports to Mexico, leaving 4-year-old sonAxel Pecero, 25, a former foster youth and child welfare advocate, agreed to leave for Mexico after nearly eight months detained, leaving his 4-year-old son in the U.S.San Bernardino County, CA · Mar 5, 2026 · Imprint News, LAist
Crime survivors protected by Congress being deported by ICEYessenia Ruano, a former Milwaukee teacher's aide awaiting a trafficking-survivor visa, self-deported to El Salvador with her U.S. citizen children after ICE threatened her at a check-in. A lawsuit challenges new ICE guidance ending protections for crime survivors.Los Angeles, CA · Mar 4, 2026 · ABC7, International Business Times, WGBH +1
Daycare teacher with work permit and U.S. citizen dad arrested by agentsA Chicago daycare teacher with a work permit was arrested in front of parents and children. In Los Angeles, a U.S. citizen was detained at a Home Depot while his 1-year-old citizen daughter remained in the car.Chicago, IL; Los Angeles, CA · Dec 26, 2025 · ABC News, Associated Press, CNN
Jonathan C.: CSU lecturer arrested during immigration raid at farmA CSU Channel Islands lecturer was arrested during immigration raids at Camarillo cannabis farms, accused of throwing a tear gas canister at agents. Released on bond, he pleaded not guilty in November.Ventura County, CA · Nov 6, 2025 · FOX 11 Los Angeles, LAist, Magzter +3- Leticia N.: Mother in U.S. 35 years held by ICE at green card interviewLeticia Nevares, a mother of three and elderly caretaker who has lived in the U.S. over 35 years, was detained at her green card interview in Fresno. Her son says she volunteers caring for sick and dying neighbors.Fresno, CA · Oct 28, 2025 · FresnoLand, Newsweek, Trump Whack
Jorge B.: Pastor shot in face with pepper round by ICE at prayer vigilRev. Jorge Bautista, a pastor, was shot in the face with a pepper round while trying to deescalate an Oct. 23 prayer vigil in Alameda, California, suffering days of burning eyes and headaches.“I was in shock, disoriented and terrified that I might stop breathing altogether.” — the Rev. Jorge BautistaAlameda, CA · Oct 23, 2025 · United Church of Christ, Religion News Service, San Francisco Chronicle +4
Amanda T.: U.S. citizen ICU nurse pinned down and arrested while documenting immigration enforcementAmanda Trebach, an ICU nurse treating low-income communities in Los Angeles, was pinned to the pavement and detained while filming immigration enforcement, then released a day later without charges.San Pedro, CA · Aug 9, 2025 · FOX 11 Los Angeles, KTLA, National Nurses United +5
Justin C.: Husband of pregnant U.S. citizen detained by ICE with ticket to leaveJustin Chung, who came to the U.S. from South Korea as a toddler and now mentors at-risk teens, was detained despite agreeing to self-deport. His pregnant wife is seeking help with legal costs.South Gate, CA · Jun 13, 2025 · Radio Korea, Korea Daily (English), Total News
Colorado
Edward N.: Priest, 78, held by ICE 13 months, untreated illnessEdward Nalwamba, 78, a Ugandan priest living in Colorado over two decades, was freed after 13 months in ICE detention, having to be carried out after losing the ability to walk.Aurora, CO · Oct 20, 2026 · CBS News, indcatholicnews.com
Marina O.: Douglas County teacher and her children detained by ICE, sent to TexasMarina Ortiz, a fifth-grade teacher in Douglas County, Colorado, was detained with her children during a routine immigration appointment and sent to a Texas facility despite holding valid work authorization through 2029.Centennial, CO · Oct 24, 2025 · Denver Post, CPR Podcasts, Colorado Public Radio +6
Florida
Matías P.: Argentine soccer player held nearly 3 weeks by ICE after airport arrestMatías Alejandro Pourrain, 34, an Argentine soccer player and youth coach in South Florida since 2019, was detained at a Fort Lauderdale airport before a championship match. He was released on $20,000 bond after nearly three weeks.Miami, FL · Sep 13, 2026 · Buenos Aires Herald, The Daily Beast, United Press International +9
Leonel B.L.: Venezuelan school custodian with work permit detained by ICE driving to workLeonel Armando Bolívar Linares, 29, a Venezuelan school custodian with a pending asylum case, was detained while driving to work after a traffic stop. His union is demanding his release.St. Johns County, FL · Aug 9, 2026 · San Jose Citizen, El Pitazo
Olga P.: Mayan translator deported to Guatemala, leaving four U.S.-citizen children behindOlga Perez, 47, a Mam-language interpreter who volunteered for decades helping police, courts and hospitals in Palm Beach County, was deported to Guatemala after nearly 30 years, leaving behind four U.S.-citizen children.Florida · Jul 31, 2026 · USA Today, Palm Beach Post, Blue Water Healthy Living +2
Rubeliz B.: Venezuelan doctor detained by ICE while traveling with 5-year-old U.S. citizen daughterDr. Rubeliz Bolívar, an emergency medicine resident, was detained with her 5-year-old daughter at McAllen airport while heading to an asylum interview despite holding a valid work permit; she was released the same night.Orlando, FL · Apr 16, 2026 · El Imparcial, Archy Newsy, American College of Emergency Physicians +1
Haitians deported from U.S. describe being left stranded, broke, and missing belongingsSeveral Haitian deportees described arriving home broke and missing belongings, including Natacha Antoine, 42, a former nurse's aide from Indianapolis whose $600 passport was never returned. A report found over 470 deported to Haiti since July.“I did more for the United States than the United States did for me,” — Natacha AntoineOrlando, FL · Oct 1, 2025 · HCN Times, NewsWav
Gustavo S.H.: Venezuelan priest with valid religious visa detained by CBP at Miami airportCatholic priest Gustavo Andrés Santos Higuera, serving at a Miami church since 2023, was denied reentry at Miami airport despite a valid religious visa. He was later released and resumed ministry before resigning for a new assignment.Miami, FL · Aug 20, 2025 · La Nación, Newsweek, Habeas Dockets +5
Pastor and father of five U.S.-citizen children deported to Guatemala by ICEAn evangelical pastor, construction business owner and father of five U.S.-citizen children was detained at a routine check-in despite a stay of removal and years of compliance. He was deported to Guatemala weeks later.Florida · May 2025 · ACLU, Christian Post, Tampa Bay Times
Georgia
Godfrey W.: Army veteran and green card holder deported to Jamaica with appeal pendingGodfrey Wade, 65, an Army veteran and father of six, was deported to Jamaica while his appeal was pending and was later hospitalized for pneumonia. A Georgia judge has since voided the old conviction behind his case.Covington, GA · Oct 5, 2026 · Military.com, NYC Carib News, Military.com +8
Dy N.: Vietnamese deacon and father of six deported by ICE, missed newborn's birthThuc Dy Dang Nguyen, a church deacon, Sunday-school teacher and father of six, was deported to Vietnam after 12 years of compliance with supervision. He missed his wife's C-section and has not met their newest child.Atlanta, GA · May 1, 2026 · Newsweek, Habeas Dockets, Tea Buoy
Linda D.: Teacher killed in crash involving ICE pursuit driverSpecial education teacher Linda Davis was killed when a man fleeing ICE officers crashed into her car during the pursuit.Georgia · Feb 20, 2026 · Associated Press, Lancaster Online, The Current GA +2
Illinois
Josue P.H.: Chicago school custodian with TPS held 42 days by ICEJosue Isai Pire-Hidalgo, a Chicago elementary school custodian who relies on hearing aids, was detained for 42 days at an Indiana jail before reuniting with his wife and two children.Chicago, IL · Aug 28, 2026 · Banco de Profissionais, CBS News, Chicago Tribune +1- Jose Enrique O.D.: Father with pending asylum case wrongly deported by ICE, returned to ChicagoJose Enrique Ojeda Duarte, a Venezuelan father of two, was wrongly deported after seven months in detention due to a government data error. He has reunited with his family in Chicago but struggles with anxiety and fear.“They treated us like dogs. Everything was bad, even the water. They were killing us little by little.” — Jose Enrique Ojeda DuarteChicago, IL · Jul 7, 2026 · WBEZ, Latin Times, Entorno Inteligente +4
Erendira R.: DACA advocate faces own renewal delays, risking deportation protectionErendira Rendon, a DACA recipient of 14 years who leads immigrant justice work at The Resurrection Project, faces months-long delays renewing her own protection, risking detention if it lapses.Chicago, IL · Mar 15, 2026 · Chicago Tribune, Bit.ly, Yahoo News
Jelili Q.: Nigerian imam with 17 years of check-ins detained by ICE in ChicagoJelili Qudus, a Nigerian imam who leads weekly prayers and feeds people in need, was re-detained after 17 years of check-ins, then freed by a judge who found his rights violated.Chicago, IL · Jan 20, 2026 · Newsweek, CourtListener, Habeas Dockets
Diana S.G.: Chicago daycare teacher forcibly removed by ICE in front of childrenA Chicago daycare teacher was pulled from a car and detained in front of children during morning drop-off. A federal judge ruled her detention illegal and ordered a bond hearing.Chicago, IL · Nov 6, 2025 · Chicago Sun-Times, CBS News, ABC7 Chicago +6
Radule B.: Hanover Park police officer detained by ICE in Operation Midway BlitzHanover Park police officer Radule Bojovic was detained by ICE on October 15 over a decade-old visa overstay, then released on bond and returned to full duty.Hanover Park, IL · Oct 15, 2025 · ABC7, FOX 32 Chicago, CBS News +3
David B.: Pastor praying at Broadview ICE protest struck repeatedly with pepper ballsRev. David Black, a Presbyterian pastor, was repeatedly struck with pepper balls and chemical spray while praying at a protest outside a Chicago-area ICE facility, prompting a judge to block such force.Broadview, IL · Oct 10, 2025 · CNN, The Oregonian, KPTV +1
Tear gas near Chicago school traumatizes children during ICE raidHundreds of children, including first-graders and toddlers as young as 14 months, were exposed to tear gas near Funston Elementary School during an October 3 Chicago immigration operation.Chicago, IL · Oct 3, 2025 · The Intercept, Real News Network, NBC Chicago +7
Iowa
Sunday G.: University of Iowa professor's citizenship ceremony canceled without explanationSunday Goshit, a University of Iowa adjunct professor from Nigeria who came to the U.S. in 2000, had his citizenship ceremony canceled weeks before the date. He and his wife are suing immigration officials over it.Iowa City, IA · Apr 3, 2026 · Little Village Magazine, Creative Learning Guild, The Daily Iowan
Ian R.: Guyana-born Des Moines schools superintendent arrested by ICEIan Roberts, superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools and a Guyana native who came on a student visa in 1999, was arrested on a fugitive warrant and has left his post.Des Moines, IA · Sep 27, 2025 · Fox News, Education Week, The Center Square
Louisiana
Zimbabwean nurse with asylum protections deported to Cameroon after 15 yearsA Zimbabwean nurse who lived in the U.S. for 15 years with asylum protections was deported to Cameroon in January 2026 and held in Yaoundé with poor food and no documents.Alexandria, LA · Jan 15, 2026 · El País
Wendy B.: Louisiana mother detained 200 miles from home after routine ICE check-inWendy Brito, a Salvadoran asylum-seeker, mother of three and school volunteer who has lived near New Orleans for 15 years, was detained at a routine check-in and is now held 200 miles from her children.Basile, LA · March 2025 · The Independent, NewsWav, El Risala +2
Trans-Latina advocate lured to ICE office, denied care and deported to MexicoA trans-Latina community organizer and 2024 human rights award recipient was lured to an ICE office with promises of leniency, detained, allegedly mistreated, then deported to Mexico, a country she had never lived in.New Orleans, LA · February 2025 · ACLU, WWNO, Institute for Policy Studies +1
Maine
Dannick M.B.: Congolese asylum seeker, jail officer, detained by ICE at routine check-inDannick Massamba-Bankela, a Cumberland County jail officer and sole breadwinner for his wife and two young children, was detained by ICE after a routine check-in despite a pending asylum claim and no criminal record.Scarborough, ME · Sep 22, 2026 · Press Herald, Maine Public, The Maine Wire +1- Billy B.B.: Congolese corrections officer with work permit detained by ICE at homeBilly Bassikissa Bounguiena, a Cumberland County corrections officer with a valid work permit, was detained at his South Portland home. County officials dispute ICE's claim he has a criminal record.South Portland, ME · Jun 11, 2026 · Press Herald, Maine Public, WMTW
Pastor Antonio's congregation empties as ICE arrests surge in MainePastor Antonio leads a multilingual evangelical church in southern Maine, but attendance has dropped as congregants stay home fearing ICE arrests. Advocates report nine arrests near Lewiston-Auburn in three weeks.Maine, ME · May 20, 2026 · Maine Public, Bangor Daily News
Rufino B.: Angolan pastor detained by ICE while helping detained congregation member in MaineRufino Beca, a 59-year-old pastor from Angola leading two congregations, was detained while collecting funds to help a church member held in custody. His daughter says he is an asylum seeker, not a visa overstayer.Portland, ME · Apr 23, 2026 · Project Vet Relief, Press Herald
Cumberland County corrections officer authorized to work until 2029 arrested by ICEA Cumberland County corrections officer was detained in Portland despite holding documentation authorizing him to work until April 2029. He had a clean background check and was pursuing legal immigration status.Portland, ME · Jan 22, 2026 · Press Herald, Spectrum Local News, WGME +2
Dozens of Mainers held weeks by ICE, many losing their jobsEvaristo Kalonji, an Angolan church organist, was among dozens of Mainers detained in a January 2026 ICE operation and moved between out-of-state facilities. Judges later ordered about 35 released.South Portland, ME · Jan 22, 2026 · Bangor Daily News, Press Herald, CourtListener
Michel T.: Maine pastor seeking asylum held 16 days by ICEMichel Tshimankinda, a South Portland pastor from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, was freed on bond after 16 days in detention and has returned to lead his church while his asylum case continues.Westbrook, ME · Aug 14, 2025 · Portland Press Herald, The Maine Wire, Press Herald +2
Maryland
Rabbiatu K.: Nurse with court protection deported to Ghana, filmed dragged by hairRabbiatu Kuyateh, a 58-year-old nurse who cared for Covid-19 patients for decades, was deported to Ghana despite court protection from removal and filmed being dragged by her hair into a van.“That’s when they dragged me. So, they bumped the back of my head.” — Rabbiatu KuyatehBowie, MD · Sep 23, 2026 · NBC Washington, US News Sphere, Nedhamson's Second Line View of the News +9
Daniel F.E.: Easton, Maryland pastor held by ICE says he was denied heart medicationDaniel Fuentes Espinal, a volunteer pastor and construction worker who led a 70-family congregation for over a decade, was detained while driving to a job and held nearly a month before his Easton community won his release.Easton, MD · Aug 18, 2025 · ACLU, Christian Post, CNN +7
Massachusetts
Carlos M.V.: Honduran student, police volunteer held 44 hours by CBP at Logan AirportCarlos Maldonado Valle, 21, a Honduran student and Provincetown police volunteer, was held 44 hours at Logan Airport after a diverted flight left him without travel paperwork. He was freed October 8 after a judge blocked his removal.Boston, MA · Oct 11, 2026 · Northeast News Collaborative, Cape and Islands, WGBH +4Maria R.: DACA recipient held 10 days by ICE after warrantless Boston airport arrestMaria Rosales, 32, a dermatologist's assistant and community nonprofit founder, was detained at Logan Airport over a 2017 order she says she never knew about. A judge ordered her freed after 10 days and let her lawsuit against ICE proceed.Boston, MA · Sep 9, 2026 · Boston Globe, WCVB, Boston.com +2
Debora K.: Zambian nurse seeking asylum detained by ICE at airportDebora Kapisha, a Zambian nurse at Maine Medical Center with a pending asylum claim, was detained by ICE on July 30 and released August 7 after a rally and legal challenge.Boston, MA · Aug 7, 2026 · The Maine Anchor, Maine Public, Maine Morning Star +8
Mariola P.: Guatemalan genocide survivor and Lynn educator not detained at ICE check-inMariola Perez, a Guatemalan genocide survivor and school paraprofessional in Lynn for 16 years, was not detained at her May 11 ICE check-in after over 4,500 people signed a petition for her.Burlington, MA · May 11, 2026 · CBS News, Boston.com, Item Live
Ruzana N.: Pastor with U.S. citizen son detained at routine ICE check-in in MassachusettsAssociate pastor Ruzana Nehonde, 49, was detained during a routine check-in despite nearly three decades in Massachusetts and a U.S. citizen son. Her Stow church community is raising money to help her family.Stow, MA · Dec 3, 2025 · Boston Globe, CBS News, FOX 23 Maine
Michigan
- Stanley M.: Nursing assistant held by ICE nine months, misses U.S. citizen son's birthdayStanley Minjale, a Malawian nursing assistant in Indiana with a nearly two-year-old U.S. citizen son, has spent nine months detained at a Michigan facility, missing the boy's second birthday while appealing his case.Baldwin, MI · Oct 2025 · Interlochen Public Radio, Michigan Public
- Philippe K.: Former Michigan graduate student detained by ICE for second timePhilippe Kame, a former University of Michigan graduate student and architectural designer, was detained a second time in April 2026 while on approved leave. He was released on $8,000 bond after about a month.Ann Arbor, MI · Apr 27, 2025 · Michigan Daily, MLive
Minnesota
Alex P.: VA nurse fatally shot by Border Patrol during Minneapolis protestAlex Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center with no criminal record, was shot ten times by Border Patrol agents while observing a protest, holding only his phone.Minneapolis, MN · Sep 30, 2026 · Bellingcat, The Marshall Project, NPR +38
Quentin W.: Minneapolis teacher tackled, choked by Border Patrol agents while shielding studentsQuentin Williams, an assistant teacher known as 'Mr. Q' at Roosevelt High School, was tackled and choked by agents while shielding students during a school dismissal. Charges against him were later dropped.Minneapolis, MN · Jul 15, 2026 · KSTP, MSN, Newsweek +4
Teachers and union organizers among 15 anti-ICE activists arrested in MinnesotaCal Robinet, a 37-year-old union electrician, was among 15 teachers, organizers and activists arrested June 16 and charged with conspiracy during a Minnesota immigration enforcement operation.St. Paul, MN · Jun 16, 2026 · Star Tribune, New York Times, The Appeal +1
Erik D.: College professor and father of two detained by ICE after car stopErik Davis, a 53-year-old Buddhist studies professor and father of two, was stopped and arrested en route to a medical appointment, among 15 charged with conspiracy over anti-ICE organizing.“It was a federal invasion and terror campaign on our streets. The behavior of these masked thugs was horrific … they were ripping human beings out of families.” — Erik DavisSt. Paul, MN · Jun 16, 2026 · The Guardian, Bold, Mogazamasr +2
Treasure T.: Special education teacher arrested after protesting ICE raids in MinneapolisTreasure Thoreson, a Minneapolis special education teacher, was arrested at her home in June 2026 after joining blockades protesting ICE's headquarters, and now faces conspiracy charges with 14 others.Minneapolis, MN · Jun 2026 · NPR, Cash Walk Labs
Minnesota prosecutor's Jewish faith allegedly disparaged by Border Patrol commander BovinoA Minneapolis pastor was detained by ICE after joining a protest; officers made remarks about his race during his release, including "You're White."Minneapolis, Minnesota · Jan 24, 2026 · Associated Press, Guardian News, The Independent +6
Christina R.: U.S. citizen teaching assistant held by ICE 12 hours without chargesChristina Rank, 25, a U.S. citizen classroom assistant, was held nearly 12 hours after ICE agents said she rammed their vehicle outside a Minnesota school; witnesses dispute that account. No charges have been filed.Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota · Jan 13, 2026 · Yahoo News, Threads, Twin Cities +5
Kenny C.: Minneapolis pastor detained by ICE after agents point gun at his faceRev. Kenny Callaghan, a Minneapolis pastor, was handcuffed for about 30 minutes after offering himself in place of a Hispanic woman agents approached, then released when told he was White.“I said I am not afraid and then they pointed a gun in my face, and the crowd was chanting louder and louder, they were also chanting at this time, ‘we are not afraid, we are not afraid.’ ICE put handcuffs on my hands and put me in a black SUV,” — Rev. Kenny CallaghanMinneapolis, MN · Jan 7, 2026 · KARE 11, People, MEAWW +1
Juan Carlos B.: Venezuelan professor seeking asylum arrested by ICE at his Shakopee apartmentJuan Carlos Barreto, a Venezuelan college professor, was arrested at his Shakopee apartment despite following asylum procedures. He has since been released but must wear an ankle monitor.Shakopee, MN · Jan 31, 2025 · CBS News, Fox 9
Mississippi
Missouri
Nevada
New Jersey
Norma B.: 69-year-old nurse thrown to ground by ICE agent, suffers fractured kneecapNorma Bowe, 69, a nurse and professor running a mobile clinic outside a detention center, was thrown to the ground by an agent, fracturing her kneecap; she is now seeking $500,000 in damages.Newark, NJ · Oct 6, 2026 · New Jersey Monitor, The Guardian, Patch +5
Tonny Q.R.: South Orange father of child with Down's syndrome detained by ICETonny Quesada-Ramirez, who has lived in the U.S. for 26 years and cares for a child with Down's syndrome, was detained while working on his home but released days later after community fundraising and advocacy.South Orange, NJ · Aug 8, 2026 · Montclair Local, Newsweek, Village Green
Norma B.: Nurse running health clinic says ICE agents attacked her outside Delaney HallDr. Norma Bowe, a grandmother and nurse running a mobile health clinic for families of detainees, was assaulted by ICE agents outside Delaney Hall. She has filed a legal claim over the attack.“I was violently attacked by ICE agents while I was trying to provide medical care for people visiting their loved ones in Delaney Hall.” — Dr. Norma BoweNewark, NJ · Jul 29, 2026 · ACLU of New Jersey, New Jersey Monitor, NJ.com +1
Damaris G.L.: Maryland mother with work permit held in crowded Louisiana ICE detention centerDamaris Gomez-Laurens, a Maryland electrician and mother of two, has been held since August at a Louisiana detention center after a routine check-in. She leads Bible studies there and is known among detainees as 'Pastor.'Elizabeth, NJ · Apr 16, 2026 · New Jersey Monitor, News from the States, NBC Washington +1
Yeison C.V.: New Jersey pastor seeking asylum held three weeks in ICE detentionRev. Yeison Cortes Vasquez, 46, a pastor at The Gathering Place Church in Elizabeth, N.J., was detained during a food delivery job and held three weeks at Delaney Hall before release on bond with GPS monitoring.Elizabeth, NJ · Apr 13, 2026 · CBS News, Yahoo News, Newsweek +4
Ruperto V.M.: Chef and father of three detained by ICE despite valid work authorizationRuperto Vicens Marquez, a chef, father of three and co-owner of Emilio's Kitchen, was detained despite holding valid work authorization through 2029. A GoFundMe has raised $85,000 and a judge granted him a bond hearing.Atlantic Highlands, NJ · Oct 30, 2025 · Patch, ABC7 New York, Asbury Park Press +6
New York
German M.G.: SUNY Brockport IT worker seeking asylum detained by ICE outside Batavia homeGerman Machado Guillen, a Venezuelan IT technician at SUNY Brockport, was detained outside his Batavia home on his way to work. He and his wife fled Venezuela in 2016 and have an asylum case still pending.Batavia, NY · Oct 15, 2026 · uupinfo.org, Rochester First, uticaod.com +3
Yehonatan O.: Hasidic rabbi and father of five denied bond, faces deportation to IsraelYehonatan Ovadia, a 35-year-old rabbi and father of five from Rockland County, remains detained in Brooklyn and faces deportation to Israel after his visa extension was denied over a 2023 protest. A judge denied him bond.“The First Amendment protects both Mr. Ovadia's right to criticize a foreign government and his right to practice and express his deeply-held religious belief that the Zionist project is incompatible with Judaism. We demand his immediate release.” — Eric LeeNew York, NY · Sep 30, 2026 · Newsweek, Jewish Telegraphic Agency, Nexus News Feed +6Ibrahim T.: Turkish diabetes researcher detained after GPS wrong turn near Canadian borderIbrahim Topkaya, 33, a Turkish diabetes researcher, was detained after a GPS error rerouted him near the Canadian border during a trip with his visiting mother. He remains held in Batavia.Lewiston, NY · Sep 6, 2026 · Spectrum Local News, WIVB, Investigative Post
Brooklyn green card holder detained by ICE, stripped of status over postsA Brooklyn writer, filmmaker, art teacher and activist with a green card was detained leaving his apartment and sent to a Louisiana facility after his legal status was terminated over his social media posts.Brooklyn, NY · Jul 4, 2026 · The Gateway Pundit, The Daily Wire, Muted News
Jose C.: Ecuadorian church handyman held by ICE in overcrowded cellsJose Criollo, a handyman and Bible reading translator at a Syracuse Catholic church, described overcrowded detention cells with elderly detainees after ICE arrested him outside a construction site.Syracuse, NY · Feb 1, 2026 · WAER, Local Syracuse, syracuse.com
Aissatou D.: Queens grandmother detained by ICE for two weeks at LaGuardiaAissatou Diallo, a 55-year-old grandmother and home health aide from Queens, was held by ICE for nearly two weeks while traveling to see her son, until a judge ordered her release.Queens, NY · Dec 5, 2025 · CBS News, The City Reporter, Documented
North Carolina
Venkata V.: Diabetic NC teacher and grandmother with green card detained at ICE check-inVenkata Vasamsetty, 59, a special-needs substitute teacher and grandmother, was detained during a routine check-in even after her case was dismissed, and held for two weeks before a judge granted her bond.Charlotte, NC · Aug 24, 2026 · NRI Pulse, Times of India, Times Now News +11Heather M.: School bus driver tackled, arrested while protesting at Charlotte ICE officeHeather Morrow, a 44-year-old Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools bus driver, was tackled and arrested on November 16 while protesting at an ICE office. Video shows her touching an agent's shoulder before being thrown to the ground.Charlotte, NC · Nov 16, 2025 · Charlotte Observer, Spectrum Local News
Ohio
Ayman S.: Ohio imam and hospital chaplain held 10 weeks by ICE, denied lawyerAyman Soliman, an Egyptian-born hospital chaplain in Cincinnati, was held about 10 weeks in freezing jail conditions after a routine check-in before DHS dropped its case. His asylum status and green card application were reinstated.Cincinnati, OH · Sep 25, 2025 · WVXU, The Guardian, Independent Mail +4
Gilbert A.: Haitian pastor who fled danger detained by ICE at Springfield gas stationGilbert Joubert Adrien, a 41-year-old Haitian pastor called "beloved" by his Springfield, Ohio congregation, was detained at a gas station amid a crackdown that has swept up more than 40 Haitian residents.“If he is being deported, the congregation will be here terrified and without their leader” — Vilés Dorsainvil, executive director of the Haitian Support CenterSpringfield, OH · Aug 20, 2025 · Springfield News-Sun, USA Today, The Columbus Dispatch +2
Oklahoma
Wulfrano P.: Tulsa pastor deported after routine immigration check-inWulfrano Portillo, a pastor at Tulsa's La Hermosa Church for 24 years, was detained at a routine check-in and deported to Mexico the next day, leaving his wife and four adult children without explanation.Tulsa, OK · Mar 10, 2026 · News on 6, Tulsa Flyer, Acts Social
Vahid A.: University of Oklahoma professor held three days by ICE at airportVahid Abedini, an Iranian Studies professor at the University of Oklahoma, was held for three days at an airport while heading to an academic conference, calling the experience deeply distressing.Norman, OK · Nov 24, 2025 · Internet Archive, News Chief, The Oklahoman +4
Oregon
Fidel C.G.: Woodburn, Oregon, pastor detained by ICE days before Marine son turns 21Fidel Cordero Garcia, a Woodburn pastor and father, was detained days before his son, a U.S. Marine, turned 21 and could have petitioned for his green card.Woodburn, OR · Sep 4, 2026 · Chron, Portland Tribune, Statesman Journal
Jackie M.: Portland mother detained by CBP, separated from four U.S. citizen childrenJackie Merlos, a Honduran mother and longtime Portland business owner, was detained by CBP during a family picnic, separating her from her four U.S. citizen children. She remains held in Tacoma.Portland, OR · Jul 10, 2025 · Seattle Times, Rolling Stone, Bellingham Herald +3
Pennsylvania
Molis A.: Pastor married to U.S. citizen deported to Haiti, leaving three childrenMolis Augustave, a pastor, DoorDash driver and father of three, was pulled over for a headlight issue and held 19 days before being deported to Haiti despite a pending green card case.York, PA · Oct 12, 2026 · Newsweek, HCN Times, WITF +8
Amson C.: Haitian asylum seeker and soccer coach detained by ICE in West YorkAmson Charleston, 26, a soccer coach and IT specialist from Haiti, was detained after a West York traffic stop and is now held at Moshannon Valley; supporters have raised over $13,000 for his legal costs.West York, PA · Aug 24, 2026 · Daily Voice, HCN Times, Keystone Newsroom +2
Nine clergy members arrested blocking ICE garage in Philadelphia protestNine clergy members and an immigration activist were arrested blocking the ICE headquarters garage in Philadelphia during a week of protest, forcibly removed and charged with obstructing access.Philadelphia, PA · Mar 30, 2026 · Philadelphia Inquirer, Florida Courier
Fouad A.: Eritrean imam dies after 215 days in ICE detentionFouad Saeed Abdulkadir, a 46-year-old green card holder and respected imam from Eritrea, died in Pennsylvania ICE custody after more than seven months, despite seeking release through the courts.Kreamer, PA · Feb 4, 2026 · WPSU Radio, WJAC-TV, Physicians for Human Rights +5
Tennessee
ELaura R.: Memphis pastor leaving church event pulled over by National Guard memberRev. ELaura James Reid, 49, a lifelong Memphis pastor, was pulled over by a camouflaged National Guard member after a church unity summit on October 10, 2025, but was not arrested or ticketed.Memphis, TN · Oct 10, 2025 · ProPublica, MLK50
Hunter D.: Soup kitchen operator arrested while filming Memphis task forceHunter Demster, who runs a Memphis soup kitchen, was arrested while filming task force activity despite staying over 25 feet away as required by law. He is among nine residents suing over the pattern.Memphis, TN · September 2025 · Mother Jones, Memphis Flyer, ACLU +2
Texas
Samuel N.: Texas pastor deported to Ghana, a country he has never visitedSamuel Nnamdi, a 45-year-old pastor and father of five who worked legally at UPS for five years, was deported to Ghana, a country he had never visited, separating him from his wife and children.Mesquite, TX · Oct 6, 2026 · MS Now, Europe News
Oswaldo P.: Padres minor-league coach detained by ICE at El Paso airportOswaldo José Pirela, 34, a Padres minor-league coaching coordinator and father of two living near Phoenix, was detained at El Paso airport while traveling for work; he was released on bond August 24.El Paso, TX · Aug 24, 2026 · NBC DFW, NBC News, 10News +13
Berhanu K.: Award-winning pharmacy instructor with work permit detained by ICE at Dallas airportBerhanu Kibret, a University of Maryland pharmacy instructor just honored as teacher of the year, was detained at Dallas airport returning from a conference and remains held despite valid work authorization.Dallas, TX · Aug 19, 2026 · The Banner, CBS News, The Guardian +7
Maryam T. and Eissa H.: Professor, husband, teen son held by ICE 120+ days despite green cardsA college psychology professor, her husband, an educator, and their 16-year-old son have been held over 120 days despite holding valid green cards, after a judge temporarily barred their deportation.Dilley, TX · Aug 17, 2026 · NBC Los Angeles, Mirror, Daily of USA +3
Luis M.P.: Venezuelan pastor seeking asylum detained by ICE at Houston airportPastor Luis Alfredo Morales Pérez, 50, who leads four Houston-area congregations, was detained at the airport while heading to visit his daughters with his wife. He is held in Livingston, Texas, as his team seeks bond.Houston, TX · Aug 12, 2026 · Telemundo, A Today, Telemundo Houston +7
Luis M.: Venezuelan pastor detained by ICE at Houston airport while traveling with wifeLuis Morales, a pastor leading four Houston-area Adventist churches, was detained at the airport while flying to see his daughters with his wife. He remains held in Livingston, Texas, as his asylum case continues.Houston, TX · Aug 6, 2026 · Click2Houston, Houston Chronicle, A Today
Elton P.: Green card holder denied insulin, deported after seven months in ICE custodyElton Purvis, a Rastafarian priest and father of nine U.S. citizen children, was detained for seven months, during which he says guards denied him diabetes care and proper food before his December deportation to Trinidad and Tobago.Pearsall, TX · Jul 31, 2026 · Texas Tribune, Hill Country Post, Antigua Trumpet +6
Leticia U.: Nigerian nun detained by ICE on way to Mass, denied medicationSister Leticia Ugboaja, a 56-year-old Nigerian-born nun and registered nurse, was detained while walking to Mass in McAllen, Texas, despite valid legal status, and released the same day after lawmakers intervened.McAllen, TX · Jul 29, 2026 · The Independent, East Texas Radio, Spot On Texas +27
Nepthalí Z.S. and Cinthia C.O.: Pastors detained by ICE at Texas airport, threatened with separation from childrenTwo Edinburg, Texas pastors were detained at a McAllen airport while heading to a marriage retreat, their first trip away from their three U.S. citizen children. They were released after two days.McAllen, TX · Jul 27, 2026 · Common Dreams, La Hora, El Universal +7
Jorge V.: Venezuelan restaurant owner seeking asylum detained by ICE in El Paso, TexasJorge Vilchez, who owns Caracas Latin Food in El Paso, was detained by ICE on July 16 after organizing a June earthquake relief drive for Venezuela through his restaurant. His asylum case remains pending.El Paso, TX · Jul 16, 2026 · CBS 4 Local, La Patilla, KFOX TV +2
Roberto L.F.: Cuban ESL teacher detained 297 days by ICERoberto López Falcón, a Cuban-born ESL teacher at an Austin elementary school, was detained 297 days after fleeing persecution for refusing to teach Communist ideology. A judge ruled his detention illegal and ordered his release.San Antonio, TX · Jun 1, 2026 · FOX 7 Austin, Austin American-Statesman, Austin Current +2
Rubeliz B.: Venezuelan doctor with work permit arrested by CBP at McAllen airportDr. Rubeliz Bolívar, a Venezuelan physician with a work permit, was detained at McAllen airport with her five-year-old daughter and held a month before a judge ordered her release on bail.Texas · May 13, 2026 · KEYT, KRGV, Telemundo +2
Rubeliz B.: Venezuelan ER doctor and 5-year-old U.S. citizen daughter held by CBPDr. Rubeliz Bolívar, a 33-year-old ER resident in McAllen, Texas, was detained with her 5-year-old daughter while traveling to her asylum interview, which she missed.McAllen, TX · Apr 11, 2026 · Associated Press, American College of Emergency Physicians, Valley Central +1
Mauro H.: Houston high school soccer captain detained by ICE, deported to HondurasMauro Yosueth Henriquez, 18, a Sam Houston soccer captain and volunteer coach, was detained with his father during a December immigration check-in and deported to Honduras after nearly four months in custody.Houston, TX · Apr 10, 2026 · Click2Houston, Houston Chronicle, Houston Chronicle +2
Omar S.: Dallas community leader held seven months by ICE, ordered deportedOmar Salazar, an SMU graduate and Dallas community leader brought to the U.S. at age 11, was held for seven months before a deportation order left him facing years of separation from his U.S. citizen spouse.Dallas, TX · Apr 2, 2026 · CBS News, KERA News, NBC DFW
Ezequiel V.: Venezuelan doctor married to U.S. citizen detained at Border Patrol checkpointDr. Ezequiel Veliz, a Venezuelan physician and medical resident in Texas, was detained at a checkpoint after his protected status was revoked. Married to a U.S. citizen, he was granted bond following medical community outcry and a lawmaker's intervention.Sarita, TX · Apr 2026 · LinkedIn, Archy Newsy, American Medical Writers Association +5
Maryam T. and Eissa T.: 16-year-old and parents detained by ICE 120+ days after green cards revokedA 16-year-old Los Angeles student and aspiring tennis player has been held over 120 days with his mother after his family's green cards were revoked, citing his grandmother's 1979 hostage crisis role.“We have been put through hell for the past four months, and our physical and mental health have deteriorated in ways that might not be reversible for years,” — Maryam TahmasebiDilley, TX · Apr 2026 · Texas Tribune, News 617, NBC Los Angeles +2
Lester P.S. and Ismaray P.T.: Two Cuban pastors detained by ICE during routine immigration appointment in TexasLester 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.Harlingen, TX · Mar 31, 2026 · CiberCuba, Cuba Headlines, KRIS TV
Rubeliz B.B.: Venezuelan doctor with valid work permit held a month by ICEDr. Rubeliz Bolívar Barrios, 33, a physician with a valid work permit through 2030, was freed on bail after over a month in detention following her arrest at an airport despite valid documents.McAllen, TX · Mar 2026 · FOX RGV, KRGV, Caraota Digital +2Yaniuska L.C. and María Isabella B.L.: 7-year-old girl battles depression in ICE detentionMaría Isabella, 7, an excellent student, has been held with her mother in a Texas detention center since January, drawing pictures of herself and her mom crying.San Antonio, TX · Jan 6, 2026 · Univision, Archyde, revistasuceso.com
James M.: Kenyan priest with work permit held months by ICE, leaves United StatesRev. James Eliud Ngahu Mwangi, a Kenyan-born Episcopal priest and Texas correctional officer, was held for months despite a valid work permit before voluntarily leaving for Kenya in January 2026 to preserve future reentry.Conroe, TX · Jan 2026 · SA Current, Episcopal News Service, Epicenter +9
Marwan M.: Muslim community leader accepts deportation after 60 days in ICE detentionMarwan Marouf, a North Texas Muslim community leader for 30 years, was arrested the day his green card application was denied over decade-old allegations. After 60 days detained, he accepted deportation.Dallas, TX · Dec 26, 2025 · Dallas Observer, Texas Observer, Salon +6
Roberto L.F.: Fifth-grade teacher and four other Austin school workers detained by ICERoberto López Falcón, a Cuban-born fifth-grade teacher and Austin ISD's Campus Teacher of Promise, was detained at a routine check-in and remained held as of November, leaving his family struggling.Austin, TX · Nov 2025 · FOX 7 Austin, Houston Chronicle, KXAN +2
Alex M.: Morehouse grad detained by ICE near DallasAlex Maganda, a Morehouse College alum and former football player turned sales executive, was detained by ICE outside Dallas and held at a Texas facility while former classmates rallied for his release.Dallas, TX · Jul 11, 2025 · Capital B News (Atlanta), The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, WBLS
Lila R.: Venezuelan psychologist seeking asylum held three and a half months by ICELila Romero, 47, a Venezuelan psychologist seeking asylum, was held nearly three and a half months after a traffic stop, informally counseling detained women. She now helps families affected by deportations.Dallas, TX · Jan 9, 2025 · Entorno Inteligente, El Pitazo, Bitácora 58 +1
Utah
Vermont
José Ignacio C.: Vermont immigrant rights organizer arrested, charged with smuggling after prior border stopJosé Ignacio 'Nacho' De La Cruz, a Vermont organizer, former dairy worker and father of a 4-year-old, was arrested and charged with smuggling people across the border. A judge ordered him released on bond in April 2026.Burlington, VT · Apr 2, 2026 · VT Digger, Vermont Daily Chronicle, Boston Globe +1
Vermont superintendent, a U.S. citizen, held nearly five hours by border agentsA Nicaraguan-born school superintendent in Winooski and naturalized citizen since 2018 was held nearly five hours at a Houston airport, questioned about his marriage, and pressed for his device passwords.Burlington, VT · Jul 24, 2025 · Vermont Public, WBUR, Education Week +2
Virginia
Arfat S.: Kashmiri filmmaker seeking asylum detained by ICE at Dulles AirportArfat Sheikh, an award-winning Kashmiri filmmaker studying film at Georgia State, was detained at Dulles Airport in September while his asylum application was pending. He was later granted bond for release.Dulles, VA · Sep 24, 2026 · The Independent, TRT World, Kashmir Times +4- Mohamed G.: Algerian-born restaurant worker deported after masked ICE arrest in West VirginiaMohamed Guezoui, an Algerian man who found community in West Virginia and cared for an ailing friend, was arrested by masked ICE officers at his restaurant job and deported, launching a sweep that led to about 600 arrests statewide.West Virginia · Aug 6, 2026 · NPR, West Virginia Watch
John B. and Mark B.: Virginia Beach assistant principal and brother arrested, charges later droppedJohn Bennett, 54, an assistant principal at Kempsville High School, and his brother Mark, 59, had charges dropped after their November 2025 arrest for allegedly threatening violence against police and ICE.Virginia Beach, VA · Nov 19, 2025 · Fox News, The Independent, 13News Now
Washington
Robert S.: Kenyan doctor hospitalized with stroke-like symptoms in ICE custodyRobert Sidhe, a 43-year-old Kenyan physician and primary caretaker for his disabled fiancée, was detained while driving home from the gym and hospitalized with stroke-like symptoms. A federal judge ordered his release.Lynnwood, WA · Aug 26, 2025 · Seattle Times, Spokesman-Review
Fernando A.R.: Asylum-seeking high school theater manager thrown down by ICE, witnesses sayFernando Alves Rocha, a theater manager and mentor at a Kirkland high school, was pulled from his car and thrown to the ground during his arrest. A judge granted him bond after colleagues raised over $36,000.Kirkland, WA · Jul 30, 2025 · KUOW, KIRO 7, Seattle Times +2
Wisconsin
Salah S.: Mosque president held 80 days by ICE in retaliation for Palestinian advocacySalah Sarsour, 53, a mosque president and father of six, was held 80 days, losing over 30 pounds amid worsening diabetes. A judge found ICE likely retaliated against him for Palestinian rights advocacy.Milwaukee, WI · Sep 29, 2026 · Journal Sentinel, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Reuters +16
Yessenia R.: Milwaukee teacher's aide self-deported to El Salvador with U.S. citizen daughtersYessenia Ruano, a Milwaukee teacher's aide and mother of twin U.S.-citizen daughters, self-deported to El Salvador in 2025 after 19 check-ins over 14 years; a judge has now ordered she be allowed back.Milwaukee, WI · May 28, 2026 · Los Angeles Times, WPR, 19th News +2
Location not tied to one state
Gabriel J.: Pastor paralyzed by stroke in ICE custody after alleged denial of medicationPastor Gabriel Johnson III, 55, a father of four and 20-year North Carolina resident, suffered a paralyzing stroke after being denied his blood pressure medication in custody. He has since been released to a rehabilitation hospital.TX · Sep 13, 2026 · NBC News, Hindustan Times, Legal United States +6
Natalie H.: Jamaican pastor deported while court case pending, held indefinitely in Equatorial GuineaNatalie Holmes, 51, a Jamaican pastor, says she was deported to Equatorial Guinea in June while her case was still pending. She remains among 29 people held at a decommissioned hotel, reporting assaults by armed guards.Sep 8, 2026 · Tucson.com, Amandla News, Just Security +1- Colombian priest faces denaturalization for alleged fraud in naturalization processA 69-year-old Colombian-born priest who served parishes in Baltimore County and Harford County now faces denaturalization after pleading guilty to abusing a minor parishioner and concealing the crimes when he naturalized.Jun 8, 2026 · U.S. Department of Justice, CloudFront Distribution, The Daily Caller +2
Oscar P.: Former Colombian priest faces denaturalization for allegedly concealing criminal history during naturalizationA former Colombian priest granted citizenship in 2001 faces losing it after officials said he hid a criminal record on his application, following a 2002 guilty plea involving a parishioner.May 14, 2026 · Modesto Bee, USCIS, San Diego Red +1
Transgender health worker granted protection detained by ICE, moved to LouisianaA transgender community health worker who has lived in the U.S. for nearly 40 years and owns a home in Baltimore was detained and moved to a Louisiana facility. Her family started a fundraiser for legal costs.Apr 15, 2026 · LinkedIn, TJLP
Ezequiel V.C.: Venezuelan doctor married to U.S. citizen detained by ICE at Texas checkpointEzequiel Vélez Cáceres, a 32-year-old Venezuelan physician married to a U.S. citizen, was detained at a Texas checkpoint after losing protected status, then ordered released by a judge in April 2026.“Una felicidad total que lo hayan podido sacar; es indescriptible. Su papá está feliz y su mamá casi que no podía hablar de la emoción, su hermana también. Saben el tipo de persona que es y que ha sido todo muy injusto” — a family friendApr 15, 2026 · Telemundo, Telemundo Houston, RGV Monthly
Ezequiel V.: Venezuelan doctor married to U.S. citizen detained by CBP at Texas checkpointDr. Ezequiel Veliz, a family-medicine resident physician married to a U.S. citizen, was detained at a Texas checkpoint after losing his work permit when TPS for Venezuelans ended. He was freed on $8,000 bond after ten days.TX · Apr 6, 2026 · Info News, Latin Times, Valley Central +2
Steven T.: Ugandan pastor pulled from car by ICE in Vermont, held 16 daysPastor Steven Tendo, a Ugandan asylum seeker and nursing assistant, was pulled from his car at gunpoint outside a Vermont care facility and held 16 days before a judge ordered his release in February.VT · Mar 20, 2026 · Newsweek, Associated Press, Community Violence Intervention Collaborative +4
Kuy Nam K.: South Korean pastor detained at USCIS interview in CaliforniaKuy Nam Ko, a South Korean Presbyterian pastor, was detained during a USCIS interview in California and later released with a GPS monitor while his immigration case continues.CA · Feb 27, 2026 · Newsweek, CaseMine
Juan Antonio M.T.: Pastor arrested in traffic stop while driving to work in MarylandPastor Juan Antonio Maya Torres, an evangelism director and deacon, was arrested during a traffic stop while driving to work in Maryland. A federal court ordered his release and a bond hearing.MD · Feb 4, 2026 · Newsweek, MidPage
Leonardo C.S.: Venezuelan soccer coach detained by CBP, tortured in El Salvador prisonLeonardo José Colmenares Solórzano, a 31-year-old former youth soccer coach with no criminal history, was deported to El Salvador's CECOT prison in March 2025, where he says guards tortured him. He returned to Venezuela in July in a prisoner swap.Jul 18, 2025 · ProPublica, Firstpost, U.S. News & World Report +4
Adolfo G.: Texas pastor shoved by ICE while driving daughters to school, deportedAdolfo Gutiérrez, a volunteer pastor and father of three who led a Texas church and ran a remodeling business, was detained while driving his daughters to school and later deported after 15 years in the state.“This man has unbelievable faith and has changed so much of my perspective in life,” — a fellow detaineeTX · Apr 4, 2025 · Newsweek, Church Leaders, La República +1
Antonio V.L.: Colombian former priest denaturalized for concealing criminal history, ordered deportedAntonio Velez-Lopez, a 69-year-old former priest, was stripped of his citizenship and sentenced to a year in prison for falsifying his immigration paperwork. He was ordered deported to Colombia after completing his sentence.Feb 28, 2025 · Fox News, U.S. Department of Justice, Modesto Bee

