Attorneys are advocating for the release of a 6-year-old boy undergoing treatment for blood cancer from immigration detention in Texas, where he is held with his mother and 9-year-old sibling. The family, originally from Honduras, was detained following a May immigration hearing in Los Angeles. Their asylum request was abruptly halted, prompting fears of imminent deportation under the Trump administration’s expedited removal policy, which accelerates the deportation of immigrants who have been in the U.S. for less than two years.
This family’s detention, part of a larger trend of ICE arrests at immigration courts, is believed to be the first case challenging the impact of this policy on children. Attorneys argue that such arrests are unconstitutional, especially for those already vulnerable. Last week, a similar case emerged regarding Oliver Eloy Mata Velasquez, also detained post-court hearing.
The 6-year-old, identified as N.M.Z, was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia at three and has missed essential medical appointments while in detention. His health is reportedly deteriorating; he exhibits symptoms like easy bruising and bone pain, raising concerns about inadequate medical care in detention.
Despite claims from the Department of Homeland Security that the child is receiving proper medical attention, attorneys highlight prior negative outcomes for children at similar facilities. The family fled Honduras due to threats and had previously been deemed non-dangerous and not a flight risk, which complicates their current expedited removal status. Advocates argue the family deserves the chance to pursue their case with legal representation, stating their detention violates constitutional rights. A credible fear interview conducted by the government has raised further questions about the legality of their treatment.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
