Mario de León Díaz, a Cuban national with an I-220B immigration document who had been detained by ICE and faced deportation to Cuba, was released this Saturday, according to Telemundo 51.
"He called me and said they were going to release him, that they were going to release him," recounted Marien Acosta, the 26-year-old migrant's wife, in statements to the news channel. She explained that the family had endured overwhelming distress in recent days and feels that his release has transformed their lives: "My life changed instantly," said the woman, who is four months pregnant.
The family's attorney, Eduardo Soto, filed a lawsuit requesting an emergency parole, citing the delicate situation of his pregnant wife. "He no longer has to attend the immigration appointment, we got that off our shoulders," the young woman added.
Three days ago, the woman had pleaded for her husband's release to prevent the separation of their family. León Díaz was facing a deportation order due to having an I-220B document and not passing the credible fear interview at the U.S. border. During what seemed to be a routine appointment with ICE last week, he was detained due to having a supervision and deportation order (I-220B).
On Friday, the U.S. deported a group of 54 irregular migrants to Cuba on a flight that landed at José Martí International Airport on July 18. According to the Ministry of the Interior (MININT), the group consisted of 40 men and 14 women. Most of these individuals had left Cuba legally but later joined irregular routes to reach the U.S. border.
Key Information on Cuban Deportation and I-220B Document
This section answers some of the most pressing questions regarding the deportation process and the I-220B document, as highlighted by Mario de León Díaz's case.
What is an I-220B immigration document?
An I-220B is a document that places a migrant under an order of supervision and deportation, typically due to not passing a credible fear interview at the U.S. border.
Why was Mario de León Díaz detained by ICE?
Mario de León Díaz was detained during what seemed to be a routine appointment with ICE due to his I-220B document, which indicated a supervision and deportation order.
How did Mario de León Díaz's family secure his release?
The family's attorney, Eduardo Soto, filed a lawsuit requesting an emergency parole, citing the delicate situation of Mario's pregnant wife, which ultimately led to his release.