The former Cuban judge Melody González Pedraza is back in Cuba. This Thursday, the United States carried out her final deportation after keeping her for 484 days in various Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention centers, thus concluding a process marked by controversy and debate over the responsibility of regime officials attempting to rebuild their lives in exile.
The journalist Mario J. Pentón from Martí Noticias confirmed that the departure took place this Thursday, and shared archival images of the former judge, whose arrival in the United States in May 2024 had caused discontent within the Cuban exile community.
González had arrived in Tampa as a beneficiary of the humanitarian parole program, but her entry was immediately denied due to her repressive history. Her name appeared on the list of repressors from the Foundation for Human Rights in Cuba. Since then, she has applied for political asylum, but the U.S. justice system rejected her request.
Before leaving the island, the former judge signed sentences of three and four years in prison against four young people accused of throwing Molotov cocktails, a trial criticized for the lack of evidence and based on confessions obtained under pressure and testimonies from State Security.
The reaction of the victims
The deportation was met with relief in Cuba. One of the mothers of the convicted youths stated to Martí Noticias:
"I have received very good news, I am very satisfied and very happy because I have been informed that the former judge Melody González has already been deported here, to Cuba. A great job to everyone involved, many blessings and thank you very much."
The case has reignited the discussion about the moral and political responsibility of former regime officials seeking refuge in the United States. The lawyer Santiago Alpízar, from the organization Cuba Demanda, emphasized in an interview with Pentón that González cannot be considered a victim: “She is not a victim. Nothing will happen to her upon her return to Cuba; she will likely be given a medal.”
Back in Cuba, Melody González's fate is uncertain. She could face charges for her statements against the judicial system or, conversely, receive protection from the very regime she served as a militant of the Communist Party and president of a municipal court.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Deportation of Former Cuban Judge Melody González
Why was Melody González deported from the United States?
Melody González was deported due to her repressive history as a judge in Cuba, where she issued arbitrary sentences against young opponents. Her asylum request was denied on the grounds that she was not a victim, but rather part of the repressive apparatus of the Cuban regime.
What was the reaction of González's victims to his deportation?
The deportation of González was received with relief and satisfaction by the victims of his sentences in Cuba. Families of the convicted youth expressed their happiness, viewing the deportation as an act of justice.
What could happen to Melody González upon returning to Cuba?
The fate of Melody González in Cuba is uncertain. She could face charges for the statements she made against the Cuban judicial system or receive protection from the regime. However, some believe she will not face severe consequences due to her past connections with the Communist Party.
What do Cuban exiles think about their deportation?
The Cuban exile community in the United States views González's deportation as a victory against impunity. It is seen as a precedent that strengthens justice for the victims of the regime, preventing perpetrators from finding refuge in the U.S.
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