Immigrant Detained During Routine ICE Visit Welcomed Back to New York

Allan Marrero, an immigrant from the Cayman Islands, has returned to New York after enduring months of detention by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Marrero, who came to the U.S. with his husband, a U.S. citizen, sought to obtain permanent residency but was detained last November. His release on bail on April 23rd followed a harrowing journey through multiple detention centers, including facilities in Arizona, Texas, Florida, and Mississippi.

During his detention, Marrero alleges that ICE failed to provide him with his necessary medications in a timely and accurate manner, jeopardizing his health. His lawyer, Alexandra Rizio of Make the Road, further reported that Marrero was subjected to homophobic harassment by ICE guards. The constant transfers between facilities exacerbated his suffering, making it difficult to receive consistent medical care. This experience has led Marrero to speak out against what he describes as a "broken" immigration system that "destroys" families.

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It is truly heartbreaking and I pray for all my brothers and sisters who remain detained and await their release to reunite with their families and loved ones as I have done.

From our vantage point at El Nacional, Marrero's story is a stark reminder of the human cost of current U.S. immigration policies. While international coverage might focus on policy debates, we see the profound personal impact on individuals and families. Marrero's fear of persecution in his home country due to his sexual orientation, coupled with the alleged mistreatment during detention, paints a grim picture. His gratitude for the support he received, alongside his plea for others still detained, underscores the urgent need for reform and compassion within the immigration system. The opposition by ICE to his initial bail, despite a federal judge's approval, and the significant daily cost of his detention, further highlight systemic issues that demand attention.

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I am very happy but very tired. It did not have to be this way, Allan should not have been transferred through different detention centers nor had to beg for his medicine. Our Government did not have to pay Core Civic about $24,750 per day to keep him in jail.