Yolanda Pérez Magallón, a 50-year-old immigrant detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on February 24, was finally released this Tuesday after a judge granted her a $1,500 bail. Her arrest sparked outrage and protests in Los Angeles, as Yolanda is the primary caregiver for her 21-year-old daughter, Xitlali Tejeda, who is battling an aggressive form of bone cancer. The emotional reunion saw mother and daughter embrace tightly upon Yolanda's release.
"It's a great joy to be with my daughter and take care of her, but I'm still saddened because my son is still detained, and I don't know what will happen to him," Yolanda expressed to Univision following her release. "Those were the worst days of my life because she needs me so much, and I couldn't do anything. It was really tough," she added.
The Path to Release
During her initial immigration hearing last week, Pérez's attorney highlighted the urgency of her release, emphasizing that her daughter relies on her for daily tasks like eating, bathing, and moving around. In response, the judge ruled that Pérez could be released on minimal bail, considering her family circumstances.
The judge ordered Pérez to reside at the location where she was arrested and to seek ICE's permission if she intends to relocate. Nonetheless, the government attorney raised concerns about a potential flight risk, a claim the judge dismissed given the woman's family situation.
The government's attorney has announced plans to appeal the decision, potentially leading to further legal developments.
The Arrest Incident
Yolanda Magallón Pérez, a mother of three, was arrested in El Monte, east of Los Angeles, during an operation that also involved the apprehension of her eldest son, Jonathan Tejeda. The arrest was captured on video by neighborhood residents and her own son. The footage showed Yolanda being handcuffed as Jonathan reassured her with words of support: “Everything is okay, you haven't done anything.” The visibly distressed woman replied, “But they are going to take me.”
Jonathan, who was also detained during the operation, has a criminal record, though his family insists he has served his time and is currently the main breadwinner for the family. Although Yolanda has a minor theft charge from 2005, her criminal record is nearly spotless, raising questions about the selective enforcement of immigration policies.
Community Response
The immigrant community in California reacted with indignation to Magallón's detention. Activist groups and pro-immigrant organizations organized protests outside the Otay Mesa detention center, demanding her immediate release. Even Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass expressed concern over the case, offering financial support to prevent Yolanda's children from becoming homeless.
FAQs on Yolanda Pérez Magallón's Case
What led to Yolanda Pérez Magallón's release from ICE detention?
Yolanda was released after a judge granted her a $1,500 bail, recognizing the urgency of her family situation, as she is the primary caregiver for her daughter with cancer.
How did the community respond to Yolanda's arrest?
The community reacted with protests and demands for her release, with support from activist groups and even the mayor of Los Angeles, Karen Bass, who offered financial assistance to prevent her family from losing their home.