Yosvel Mesa Diéguez, a Cuban national, remains in the custody of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Texas, even after reportedly signing documents for his voluntary deportation three months ago.
His mother, who resides in Miami Gardens, has voiced her concerns over the deterioration of his physical and mental health during his detention, fearing that he might harm himself while waiting for action from immigration authorities.
"I signed my deportation papers three months ago," Yosvel stated from the detention center, as reported by Telemundo 51.
Using the last of his phone credit, Yosvel expressed his frustration at being held without knowing when he might be released.
"I’ve signed for my deportation; I just want to be released, but they won’t let me go," he lamented.
Adding to the uncertainty, Yosvel mentioned that his name no longer appears in the official immigration detainee tracking system, a claim not yet verified by immigration authorities.
Mother's Fears Over Health Concerns
Elsa Diéguez, Yosvel’s mother, claims her son has developed several health issues during his time in detention, including hair loss, psoriasis, and stomach problems. Her primary concern, however, is his mental health, as Yosvel has been under medical care for psychological issues since childhood.
"I’m afraid something might happen to him, that he might try to harm himself," Elsa confessed, worried about his prolonged detention and the uncertainty of his future.
She mentioned that Yosvel has told her he might remain in custody until March or April 2027, though the family is unaware of any official decision confirming this timeline.
"He told me, 'Mom, they want to keep me here until next year, March or April.' How is that possible if he’s already signed?" she questioned.
From the Border to a Texas Detention Center
Yosvel’s journey to the U.S. began when he crossed the border with his mother and another sibling. Elsa and her other son received I-220A documents, while Yosvel was initially detained by immigration authorities.
Two months later, Yosvel was released on bond, awaiting a court appearance to advance his immigration process. "He was waiting for his residency," his mother explained.
After moving from Miami to Texas, a domestic incident following a dispute with his girlfriend led to Yosvel's arrest and subsequent return to ICE custody. Since then, his family claims they have received no clear information about when or where he will be deported.
The Telemundo 51 report did not specify the charges related to the domestic incident or the outcome of that legal process. It also did not identify the specific immigration document Yosvel says he signed, making it difficult to determine the exact legal nature of his potential departure from the U.S.
DHS Maintains Silence on Deportation Details
Amid the family's distress, Telemundo 51 reached out to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to inquire why Yosvel remains detained after signing deportation papers and where he might be sent. A spokesperson responded that ICE does not comment on future removal operations, including flight schedules, passenger lists, destinations, or individual case details.
The response failed to clarify when Yosvel might be released or the specific reasons for his continued detention. Signing deportation documents does not necessarily mean an immediate departure; the procedure and timing depend on individual circumstances and the necessary arrangements for relocation.
Similar challenges have been faced by other Cubans attempting to return to the island after requesting voluntary departure from the U.S. In July 2026, CiberCuba reported on a Cuban whose re-entry was denied by Cuban authorities after seeking voluntary departure from the U.S. However, no such rejection from Cuban authorities has been reported in Yosvel’s case.
The Uncertainty of a Family Awaiting Answers
This situation arises during a period of increased deportations from the U.S. According to estimates by the Migration Policy Institute, cited by Telemundo 51, the Trump administration executed approximately 980,000 deportations in its first 18 months, between January 20, 2025, and July 31, 2026. The DHS has not officially confirmed this figure, which remains an estimate by the institute.
For Elsa Diéguez, the immediate concern is her son's condition. She worries that prolonged detention will worsen his health issues and demands answers about how long he will remain detained. Meanwhile, Yosvel insists he has completed the necessary paperwork for his deportation, eager to leave the detention center. His family continues to wait for a definitive date and destination for his transfer, determined by U.S. authorities.
FAQs on ICE Detention and Deportation Process
Why is Yosvel Mesa Diéguez still in ICE custody after signing deportation papers?
Signing deportation papers does not guarantee immediate deportation. The process and timing depend on various factors, including individual circumstances and logistical arrangements for safe removal.
What are the health concerns for Yosvel while in detention?
Yosvel has reportedly developed hair loss, psoriasis, and stomach issues during detention. His mother is also deeply concerned about his mental health, given his history of psychological problems.
What actions has Yosvel's family taken regarding his detention?
Yosvel's family has expressed their concerns publicly and sought clarification from DHS about his detention status and potential deportation details, but they have yet to receive definitive answers.