DeLauro Urges Trump Administration to Not Deport Local Constituent

WASHINGTON, DC (April 27, 2017) — Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) today wrote to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), asking the agencies to reconsider the decision to deport Luis Barrios. Mr. Barrios, a resident of Derby, Connecticut, has lived in the United States for 24 years, has no criminal record, and is the father of four children, all American citizens. Mr. Barrios was granted a Stay of Removal and was never considered a priority until he recently checked-in with immigration officials.

"As you are aware, Mr. Barrios is scheduled to be deported on May 4, 2017. According to his attorney of record, Erin O'Neil-Baker, Mr. Barrios has resided in the United States for 24 years, is married with 4 children, and maintains a job and home in Derby, Connecticut. During his 24 years he has had no criminal record and has been a contributing member to the community," wrote DeLauro. "I have read countless letters from his fellow parishioners at Saint Louis Church in West Haven and others, all of whom attest to his moral character, his work ethic, his integrity and caring nature as a father and worthy role model for his children and the community."

"In addition, his family and friends are justifiably concerned for his welfare and safety in Guatemala," continued DeLauro. "As you know, members of his and his wife's family have been kidnapped and murdered as recently as 2010. I believe returning him to Guatemala with this history is immoral and unconscionable."

According to a recent report by The Washington Post, "Immigration arrests rose 32.6 percent in the first weeks of the Trump administration, with newly empowered federal agents intensifying their pursuit of not just undocumented immigrants with criminal records, but also thousands of illegal immigrants who have been otherwise law-abiding." Despite President Trump's claim that he would focus on criminals, his Administration is now targeting undocumented immigrants, such as Mr. Barrios, who do not have a criminal record.

The full letters are available here.

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