Immigration attorney Santiago A. Alpízar has raised concerns on his Facebook profile regarding the alleged deportation of a Cuban man who has been a legal permanent resident in the United States since 2011. The individual, identified as Arolfo Antonio Acosta Sosa, was reportedly sent to Mexico in a seemingly arbitrary manner.
The incident occurred when Acosta Sosa was detained at the immigration checkpoint in La Rosita, Texas, while legally transporting goods to his home in Florida. Despite having valid immigration status, he was allegedly detained irregularly and expelled without due process.
Administrative Mistake or Intentional Act?
Alpízar questions whether this deportation was a mistake or a deliberate act aimed at undermining the administration of former President Donald J. Trump, given the politically charged atmosphere surrounding immigration policies. The lawyer's statement calls on key figures such as Kristi Noem, the current Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to halt what he describes as bad faith actions by ICE agents.
Alpízar urges the State Department, represented by Marco Rubio, to intervene to ensure Acosta Sosa's safe and prompt return to the U.S. According to the post, Acosta Sosa intends to voluntarily present himself at a U.S. consulate in Mexico.
Call for Investigation and Action
The attorney has demanded an investigation by the FBI, labeling the situation as "absurd" and stressing that such errors "should not happen." He has also invited journalists, rights advocates, and officials to engage with the case, providing Acosta Sosa's contact number for those interested in reaching out directly.
The post did not provide additional information about the detainee's immigration background or why he has not been naturalized as a U.S. citizen. In response to a comment questioning how such an event could occur, Alpízar suggested asking Kristi Noem and Marco Rubio for answers, while urging Congress to ensure dignified treatment for exiles in the U.S.
"Ask Secretary Kristi Noem why this happens. Also ask Marco Rubio how the U.S. State Department will ensure his swift and safe return, and more importantly, when President Donald J. Trump will instruct the Department of Homeland Security to provide due process to legal residents, including Cubans with inspected entries like the I-220A, Humanitarian Parole, and CBP-1, in accordance with the Cuban Adjustment Act," Alpízar criticized.
"Cuban congress members should stop talking and start taking meaningful action to ensure dignified treatment for the exile community in the U.S.," he concluded. As of the time of writing, no further details have emerged regarding the case.
Understanding the Legal Implications
What rights do legal permanent residents have in the U.S.?
Legal permanent residents in the U.S. have the right to live and work in the country permanently. They can apply for citizenship after meeting certain conditions, and they are entitled to due process under the law, including protection against arbitrary detention and deportation.
What steps can be taken if a legal resident is wrongfully deported?
If a legal resident is wrongfully deported, they or their attorney can file a motion to reopen the case with immigration authorities. They can also seek assistance from the State Department and involve their congressional representatives to address the issue and facilitate their return.