Adrián González Prieto, a 30-year-old Cuban national, was taken into custody Tuesday morning at the immigration court located in downtown Miami. His arrest followed a hearing related to his immigration status, with his mother, Débora Prieto, witnessing the event. As González was led away by officers, he bid farewell to his mother with an emotional, "I love you, mom," to which she replied, "I love you too."
Débora, who is a legal resident in the United States, captured the heart-wrenching moment on video and later claimed she was nearly detained as well. During the arrest, she openly recounted the physical scars her son bears from alleged abuse in Cuba and voiced her unwavering commitment to supporting him legally.
A Preplanned Arrest
The arrest of González took place under circumstances his mother described as "orchestrated." According to her account to Univision, immigration officials intentionally waited until after the hearing concluded to make the arrest, leaving little room for a robust defense—an approach that has been increasingly common across various states in recent weeks.
Migrant Journey
Adrián González and his mother arrived in the United States after fleeing Tapachula, in southern Mexico, in the wake of a close family member's murder and an attempted kidnapping. Seeking a safer environment, they crossed the border aiming to settle in the United States.
Fourteen months ago, González applied for residency under the Cuban Adjustment Act, while his mother simultaneously filed a family petition to aid in his legal status adjustment. Débora Prieto describes her son as a diligent worker, without a criminal record, and trained as a musician. While awaiting the outcome of his immigration case, he has been employed in the construction industry.
A Mother's Determination
Débora has stressed her resolve to reunite her family, validate her son's case, and pursue all necessary actions to secure his release. She highlighted their aspiration to begin a new life in freedom and legality. Adrián González Prieto was subsequently transferred to the Krome Detention Center.
Questions About Immigration and Detention
What led to Adrián González's arrest in Miami?
Adrián González was arrested following a hearing related to his immigration status. Officials purportedly waited until after the hearing to detain him, allowing minimal opportunity for a defense.
Why did Adrián and his mother leave Mexico?
They fled Mexico after the murder of a family member and a kidnapping attempt, seeking safety and stability in the United States.
What steps has Débora Prieto taken to support her son?
Débora has filed a family petition to help with Adrián's residency application and is determined to demonstrate the legitimacy of his case.