On October 25, Rolando Marino Cordero Rodríguez, a 76-year-old Cuban immigrant who arrived in the United States during the 1980 Mariel boatlift, was apprehended by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents outside his Miami home.
This arrest has sparked significant concern among his loved ones, who argue that his age, fragile health, and over thirty years of residence in the U.S. have been overlooked by authorities.
The Long Road from Conviction to Arrest
The journey that led to Cordero's arrest began in 1985 when the mother of a 17-year-old accused him of having a romantic relationship with her daughter. At that time, Cordero had only been in the U.S. for five years, and he was subsequently tried and served time in prison.
Despite completing his sentence, Cordero was labeled a "sexual predator," a term his family insists misrepresents both the nature of his case and his behavior since. "He had just arrived from Cuba. Sometimes, when you come from Cuba, you're not aware of the laws here, and mistakes happen," his current partner explained in an interview with Univision, highlighting the legal misunderstandings many new immigrants face.
A Record of Compliance and Unresolved Deportation
After completing his prison term, Cordero reportedly lived without committing any further offenses. For over three decades, he diligently attended all scheduled appointments with immigration authorities without fail.
However, in 1997, he was issued a deportation order that, for reasons remaining unclear, was never executed until now.
Family Rallies in Defense: "He Is Not a Predator"
Those closest to Rolando Marino Cordero have been vocal in defending him, questioning both the context and the treatment he has received. "He is not a sexual predator. If I believed he was, I wouldn't let him near me or my daughters," his stepdaughter stated.
"He is a loyal person. He doesn’t deserve this," she added. The family emphasizes that Cordero, now 76, is in a critical medical condition, having undergone heart surgery and living with a valve implant. Nonetheless, he continues to work tirelessly. "He is perfect; he does nothing wrong. He works hard, even at his age," his stepdaughter reiterated.
The Arrest Outside His Home
The arrest, which took place suddenly outside his home, was a shocking blow to his family. Despite living for decades in the U.S., working continuously, and maintaining a stable family life, the arrest was unexpected.
Authorities seemed surprised to find him residing near a school due to his criminal record, though his family insists he was never considered a threat during all these years.
Since his arrest, his family has had no contact with him. "We haven't heard from him in a week. The last we knew was that he was going to be deported to Mexico," they report with worry.
The plea from those closest to him is clear: they seek mercy, understanding, and compassion. "For the few remaining years he has, let him live them peacefully, at home," his partner expressed.
The most pressing fear is his potential deportation to Mexico, a country with which he has no connections or support networks. According to his family, such a move could have dire consequences, not only due to his age and health conditions but also because it would separate him from the life he has known for over forty years.
Understanding the Legal and Human Implications of Deportation
What led to Rolando Marino Cordero Rodríguez’s arrest by ICE?
Rolando Marino Cordero Rodríguez was arrested by ICE due to a deportation order issued in 1997, which had not been enforced until recently.
Why is Cordero's family concerned about his arrest and potential deportation?
Cordero's family is worried because of his advanced age, fragile health, and the fact that he has no ties in Mexico, where he might be deported.
How has Cordero complied with immigration authorities over the years?
For over 30 years, Cordero has consistently attended all required appointments with immigration authorities without missing any.