Cuban Detainee at ICE Facility Reports Abuse: Only One Meal a Day, Bread with Spicy Peppers

A Cuban man detained for two months at the Tacoma Detention Center in Washington claims serious mistreatment and life-threatening health issues while under the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Yefferson Lázaro García Purón, 27, was involved in the July 11, 2021 protests in Havana. Fearing imprisonment, he left Cuba and traveled through several countries before reaching the U.S. southern border. In August 2022, he was granted parole to enter the U.S. However, according to his girlfriend, Yaricel Salgado, he faced legal troubles and postponed applying for permanent residency, fearing his record might hinder the process. This decision left him vulnerable, and in May, he was captured by ICE due to his irregular immigration status.

"After encountering legal issues, he had the option to apply for permanent residency but chose to wait, fearing his case might result in denial," Salgado, who resides in Canada, told Periódico Cubano. Yefferson Lázaro's situation worsened on July 7, when he appeared before an immigration court. Salgado reported that the judge did not allow him to speak, and his lawyers failed to adequately defend him, leaving him disadvantaged. Another hearing is set for August 4, but he holds little hope.

During his time in detention, García Purón's physical health has significantly declined. He suffers from hypertension, heart conditions, and high blood pressure episodes that have necessitated hospital visits. He also endures severe mouth swelling, partial collapse of his right eye, and has been diagnosed with a heart murmur. Amidst these health challenges, he claims to receive only one meal a day, consisting of "bread with spicy peppers" or sometimes boiled carrots.

García Purón has also voiced distress over his two young daughters, aged four and seven, who remain in Cuba and could become orphans if his condition worsens. Another concern is the transfer of several Cuban detainees by ICE to Alaska, posing additional legal and emotional hurdles for those trying to stay close to family. He fears he might be next.

This Cuban detainee's case reignites the debate over the treatment of immigrants held in ICE facilities and the legal and humanitarian safeguards for those fleeing oppressive environments. His story not only highlights the challenges faced by Cuban exiles but also raises questions about the U.S. immigration system's handling of vulnerable cases.