The Cuban singer Ovidio Crespo, artistically known as Ovi, confessed during an interview with Santiago Matías on the popular Dominican program Alofoke Radio Show that his immigration process in the United States was as costly as it was distressing. The artist stated that he had to spend almost 80 thousand dollars in legal fees to avoid being deported to Cuba.
“I spent almost 80 thousand dollars on lawyers,” declared the reggaeton artist from the Dominican Republic, where he is currently visiting after receiving a pardon from the U.S. government.
Ovi explained that his legal situation was the result of a problem with the justice system that led him to be detained for more than 90 days at the Krome Processing Center, an immigrant prison in South Florida. “Forgiveness was difficult. I spent more than 90 days fighting with an immigration lawyer in a prison,” he recounted.
Although she described the center as a place with acceptable conditions, she acknowledged that the most challenging aspect was the emotional impact. “Mentally, it was very tough. Not knowing what was going to happen,” she confessed.
During his appearance before the immigration judge, Ovi stated that he made the decision to change his lifestyle. "I asked the judge for forgiveness and told him that I was going to do what I am doing now, that I wouldn't be carrying guns anymore. I told the judge that I would pay for security to avoid carrying a gun," he detailed.
The interpreter expressed gratitude for the second chance given to him by the United States: “My legal status is that I was granted a pardon. That’s why I can be in the Dominican Republic today. Thanks to the government of the United States for giving me a second opportunity.”
Ovi has stated on several occasions how difficult it was to face his legal process, especially due to the risk of being deported to Cuba, a country he does not wish to return to. “What suffocated me was the thought of not seeing my mother and my son,” he said in a previous interview.
The revelation of the high legal costs underscores the challenges many Cuban migrants face in their attempt to regularize their status in the United States, especially in the context of tightening immigration policies.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ovi's Immigration Case
How much money did Ovi spend on lawyers to avoid his deportation from the United States?
Ovi spent nearly 80 thousand dollars on legal fees to avoid being deported to Cuba. This amount reflects the complexity and cost of the immigration process he faced in the United States.
Why was Ovi detained at the Krome Processing Center?
Ovi was detained for over 90 days at the Krome Processing Center due to a legal issue that resulted in an immigration hold. During this time, Ovi fought his case with the help of an immigration attorney to avoid being deported to Cuba.
What measures did Ovi take to change his legal situation in the United States?
Ovi promised to change his lifestyle during his appearance before the immigration judge. He expressed his intention not to carry weapons and to hire personal security, which was part of his strategy to obtain the necessary immigration waiver to stay in the United States.
How does Ovi's case impact the Cuban immigrant community in the United States?
The case of Ovi highlights the challenges faced by many Cuban migrants trying to regularize their status in the United States. The revelation of the high legal costs and the risk of deportation emphasizes the difficulties within a context of stricter immigration policies, which create fear and uncertainty within the Cuban community.
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