Immigration attorney Rosalí Chaviano has shed light on the legal grounds that led to the deportation of Cuban mother Heydi Sánchez Tejeda. Sánchez Tejeda, who was under immigration supervision with a Form I-220B in the United States, was deported last Thursday after being detained during a routine check-in at the Tampa, Florida immigration office.
The Cuban mother, who is nursing a baby, was sent back to Havana on a flight with 81 other migrants. Her infant daughter remains in the United States, currently in the care of her U.S. citizen husband, Carlos Yuniel Valle. This forced separation has sparked outrage within the immigrant community, as it abruptly disrupted the mother-daughter breastfeeding bond.
Chaviano explained to América TeVé that the I-220B form does not offer protection from deportation. Instead, it serves as a supervision order for those already facing a deportation order from an immigration judge or an expedited removal process. "The I-220B is a supervision order when an individual has a deportation order," Chaviano clarified. "This can be issued by a judge or through expedited procedures. When immediate deportation isn't possible, conditional supervision is granted."
The lawyer emphasized that individuals with an I-220B must regularly report to the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
Current Deportation Priorities and Challenges
According to Chaviano, current deportation priorities explicitly target individuals with active orders, putting them at risk during ICE appointments and even during USCIS processes like biometric screenings or residency interviews. Recent stricter policies have led to the swift detention and deportation of migrants with ongoing legal proceedings, such as Heydi Sánchez.
Chaviano also noted a preference by Cuban authorities for accepting younger, professional migrants without criminal records. "Unfortunately, with Cuba, there is a pattern of accepting young, employable professionals. They are less interested in those with criminal records or who have been here for many years. They prefer those who can return to the island to work and contribute," she remarked.
Community Outrage and Emotional Impact
Heydi Sánchez Tejeda's deportation adds to a series of recent cases involving Cubans removed during routine appointments, even while processing their legal residency. The case has triggered widespread criticism of immigration authorities for their lack of sensitivity to situations involving children and established family ties.
Official data reveals that over 450 Cubans have been deported so far in 2025 on direct flights to Cuba from various countries. In a video shared by journalist Mario Pentón, Carlos Yuniel Valle expressed his frustration, stating, "All our efforts were in vain. In the end, ICE and Trump got their way."
"They separated a child from her mother, effectively killing the mother, father, and the future of a child," Valle added, visibly distressed.
Heydi, who arrived in the U.S. five years ago, was waiting for a response to her family petition filed over two years ago. She had no criminal record, complied with all legal requirements, was employed, paid taxes, and remained lawful.
In further comments to CiberCuba, Valle mentioned that the original appointment was set for April 30 but was unexpectedly moved up to Tuesday, the 22nd. Accompanied by their daughter and an attorney, the couple did not anticipate the traumatic experience they faced. Minutes after arriving, Valle received a heart-wrenching call from his wife, who tearfully asked him to collect their daughter because she had to stay behind. Agents then handed him their child, who was crying and screaming, and he was not allowed to say goodbye to his wife.
FAQs on Cuban Deportation Cases
What is an I-220B form?
The I-220B form is a supervision order issued to individuals who have a deportation order. It allows for conditional supervision until deportation can be executed.
Why was Heydi Sánchez Tejeda deported despite her ongoing legal process?
Heydi Sánchez Tejeda was deported because the I-220B form does not protect against deportation, and her legal process was not completed. The current priorities target individuals with active deportation orders.
How has the community reacted to the deportation of Heydi Sánchez Tejeda?
The community has expressed outrage over the separation of Heydi Sánchez Tejeda from her nursing child and criticized immigration authorities for their insensitivity toward familial bonds.