Álvaro Fernando Medina Melo, a 38-year-old Cuban living in Florida, was taken into custody by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during his fourth routine check-in at the Miramar office in Broward County. Medina, who was on parole with an I-220A form, now faces potential deportation, causing alarm within the Cuban community.
In an interview with Univision, Medina's attorney criticized the arrest as a "misuse of discretion" by ICE, emphasizing that Medina has no criminal record, maintains an outstanding work history, and is the primary provider for his family, including a daughter with severe autism.
Glenny Stack, Medina's wife, pleaded with authorities to halt the deportation process, stressing the family's dependence on his economic, physical, and emotional support. The attorney further explained that an old deportation order linked to Medina's initial failed entry attempt in 2019 is central to his case.
Medina was released on I-220A status after a subsequent attempt to enter the U.S. Despite attending all required check-ins, ICE decided to detain him, leaving his family in a state of uncertainty. They are now gathering signatures to request his release and prevent his potential deportation to Cuba or detention in Guantanamo.
Rising Concerns Among Cubans with I-220A
The incident has heightened fears among Cubans with I-220A status, who previously believed they were safe from the deportations ramped up during Donald Trump's administration. Immigration attorneys stress that each case is reviewed individually and with heightened scrutiny.
Willy Allen, a well-known Florida immigration lawyer, expressed confidence in defending Cubans with I-220A. "We'll succeed in a Federal Court. Present a strong asylum case. We may have to fight," Allen stated, dismissing the notion of mass deportations for those with this immigration status. He emphasized the Cuban Adjustment Act of 1966 as the path Cuban immigrants should pursue.
Impact of Stricter U.S. Immigration Policies
Medina's detention comes amid a broader tightening of U.S. immigration policies. Since Donald Trump took office, benefits such as parole, the CBP One application, and Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for certain immigrant groups have been curtailed. Deportations have resumed to countries like Mexico, Venezuela, and Colombia, increasing uncertainty among immigrant communities.
Currently detained, Medina's family in Florida continues to demand his release and protection under the Cuban Adjustment Act.
Understanding the I-220A Status and Its Implications
What is the I-220A form?
The I-220A form is a document used by U.S. immigration authorities to allow certain individuals to remain in the country under supervision while awaiting further processing of their immigration cases.
Why are Cubans with I-220A concerned about deportation?
Cubans with I-220A are worried about deportation due to recent increases in immigration enforcement and a perceived shift in policy that could affect their previously considered protected status.
How has U.S. immigration policy changed under recent administrations?
Under recent administrations, U.S. immigration policy has become more stringent, with reductions in benefits such as parole and TPS for certain groups, and a resumption of deportations to various countries.