The family of Rogelio Lázaro González Moya, a 26-year-old Cuban holding an I-220A immigration status, is raising concerns as he has been detained by U.S. immigration authorities for 77 days without receiving a clear response regarding his situation, as reported by Telemundo 51.
Rogelio was taken into custody on June 23, immediately following his initial hearing at an immigration court in Miami. Although his legal proceedings were dismissed at the time, agents from the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) apprehended him and transferred him to a detention facility. Since then, he has been moved through facilities in Miami, Texas, and Arizona, eventually being held at the Eloy Detention Center in Arizona.
His family claims that during his transfers, Rogelio endured harsh conditions, such as being shackled for hours on buses and planes without access to adequate food or water. They also allege that he spent several days in what are known as “freezers,” extremely cold cells without mattresses and insufficient food.
“He is desperate, unable to defend his case, without a credible fear interview, and treated as if he were a criminal, which he is not,” stated his brother-in-law, Jorge Tirado Bientz, to Telemundo 51.
Rogelio arrived in the United States in August 2022 and quickly became part of the Miami community, working as an optometry technician at a clinic. His family emphasizes that he has no criminal record and has fulfilled all his obligations, including paying taxes.
His sister, Iriatna Miranda Moya, describes the situation as a “nightmare,” explaining, “We are helpless, not knowing what will happen or how much longer he will be detained. Rogelio is not a criminal; he worked and paid taxes,” she expressed in a statement reported by the media outlet.
Immigration attorney Rosaly Chaviano noted that delays in such processes have become common. “What we are witnessing might be a tactic used to make individuals lose patience and agree to deportation,” she explained, adding that holders of I-220A have the right to request a credible fear interview and secure legal representation.
The family fears that if Rogelio is deported back to Cuba, he could face reprisals and professional limitations due to his previous career in the medical field before emigrating.
Key Concerns About Rogelio's Detention
What is the I-220A immigration status?
The I-220A is a form of immigration status given to certain individuals who are in the process of seeking asylum or are awaiting a decision on their immigration case. It allows them to remain in the United States temporarily under specific conditions.
Why has Rogelio González Moya been detained for so long?
According to reports, Rogelio has been detained by ICE without a clear resolution or response on his case. His legal proceedings were dismissed, but he remains in custody, a situation that his family and attorney are challenging.
What are the alleged conditions of Rogelio's detention?
Rogelio's family claims he has been subjected to harsh conditions, such as being shackled for extended periods and placed in extremely cold cells with inadequate food and water during his transfers between detention facilities.