A 22-year-old woman experienced a moment of terror on April 2 when she was intercepted by agents from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) after dropping her sister off at school. The incident, which took place in Fresno, has sparked outrage among immigrant communities and reignited the debate over the tactics used by the federal agency.
The young woman affected recounted to Univision 21 that after completing her morning routine and parking her vehicle at home, she was suddenly confronted by four armed agents who pointed guns at her and handcuffed her in front of her house.
"It was really traumatic, especially because of the weapons, because other times it wasn't with weapons, but this time it was more serious. I knew things could have turned out worse," Angel told the local media.
According to her testimony, the agents asked her why she had gone to school and if she was the one driving at high speed in the area. Minutes after confirming that she was a legal resident, she was released. However, the young woman experienced a panic attack and had to leave her job that same day.
What Angel (as Univision decided to name her to protect her identity) experienced adds to other recent cases that have sparked controversy, such as that of José Gregorio González, a Venezuelan migrant who was detained while accompanying his brother to a medical appointment and released after community pressure.
There is also the case of Jensy Machado, a U.S. citizen of Salvadoran descent who was unjustly detained despite having all his documents in order, and who withdrew his support for the president after experiencing this ordeal.
Another example is that of Víctor Manuel Izquierdo Peralta, a young Cuban who was arrested on his birthday, despite having an ongoing marriage-based residency application and no criminal record.
In a broader context, multiple recent reports indicate an increase in detentions during routine immigration appointments or due to minor administrative errors, as was the case with the Cuban doctor Elisbet Cardero.
Fear among migrant communities
The experience of this young Hispanic woman, who plans to take legal action following her ordeal, has reignited fear within migrant communities in the United States. Lawyers and activists are questioning the use of weapons, the lack of transparent communication, and the psychological effects that such procedures leave on individuals who do not pose a threat.
For many, these cases reflect a hardening of immigration policy under the current administration and create a sense of widespread insecurity, even among those who are in legal status.
Frequently Asked Questions about ICE and Immigration Detentions in the United States
Why was the young woman arrested at her home after dropping her sister off at school?
The young woman was intercepted by ICE agents upon arriving home after dropping her sister off at school. Although she was a legal resident, the agents pointed guns at her and handcuffed her, which triggered a panic attack.
What is Form I-220A and how does it affect immigrants?
The I-220A form is a "Conditional Release Order" that allows the release of individuals from federal custody under certain conditions. It does not grant official legal status in the country and does not allow for status adjustment under the Cuban Adjustment Act, leaving beneficiaries in a legally uncertain situation.
What is causing the increase in immigrant detentions by ICE?
The increase in detentions is due to a tightening of immigration policies under the administration of Donald Trump, which promotes greater control and oversight of immigrants. This includes detentions during routine immigration appointments and for minor administrative errors.
What is the impact of ICE policies on migrant communities in the U.S.?
ICE's policies have generated fear and insecurity in migrant communities, affecting individuals even with legal status. These policies not only create panic but also negatively impact the economy of small businesses owned by Latinos.
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