DeLauro Calls on Trump Administration for Last Minute Reprieve for Luis Barrios

WASHINGTON, DC (May 3, 2017) — Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) today released the following statement regarding Luis Barrios, who is scheduled to be deported to Guatemala tomorrow morning. Earlier today, DeLauro spoke with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement regarding Mr. Barrios and pressed the agency to use prosecutorial discretion in his case.

"America was built on the idea that people from across the globe could find refuge here, and through their contributions to their communities, immigrants have made this nation what it is today. Luis, and so many other immigrants like him, came to our country fleeing violence and persecution in hopes of living in a free and safe society. How can we turn our backs on him and send him back to Guatemala when members of his family have been kidnapped and murdered? This is unconscionable.

"It is easy to forget about the struggles that others go through to enjoy the same freedoms and rights we have as citizens and that we take for granted. Federal immigration enforcement officers should focus on dangerous criminals, not immigrants who have made significant contributions to our communities. That the United States would do this to a family is unacceptable and I ask that the Trump Administration grant a last minute stay of removal."

Last week, DeLauro wrote letters to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), asking the agencies to grant a stay of removal for Mr. Barrios. DeLauro is still waiting for a response from the agencies regarding the matter.

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