A Cuban national holding an I-220A parole order is currently detained at the Krome Immigration Detention Center, facing possible deportation after leading police on a dangerous high-speed chase, reaching over 120 miles per hour, on Miami's Palmetto Expressway (SR-826). The chase ended in a dramatic crash with the vehicle overturning.
The incident unfolded on the night of March 16, when a Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) officer spotted García Estrada driving recklessly in a black Ford Mustang with white stripes heading west near Northwest 67th Avenue. According to the arrest report cited by local media, the officer attempted to pull over the vehicle using lights and sirens, but the driver accelerated abruptly, weaving through traffic and endangering numerous motorists.
The pursuit continued until the northwest 122nd Street exit, where the suspect ran a red light and collided with a white vehicle. The impact was severe enough to flip his car over. Despite the crash's severity, officers, with the assistance of an off-duty Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office official, managed to rescue García Estrada from the overturned vehicle.
Once out of the car, García Estrada became aggressive and resisted arrest, prompting officers to use a Taser to subdue him. While in the patrol car, the Cuban attempted to bribe the officer with money in exchange for his release. He faces charges including resisting an officer with violence (two counts); fleeing and eluding police at high speed in a marked vehicle; bribery of a law enforcement officer; and reckless driving causing property or personal damage.
Initially taken to the county jail (TGK), he was later transferred to the Krome detention facility due to his irregular immigration status. García Estrada arrived in the United States two and a half years ago via the border and holds a parole order I-220A.
Fears of Deportation
A close relative, who requested anonymity due to the case's sensitivity, voiced concerns about the potential immigration repercussions. "My biggest fear is that he will be deported because he doesn’t have residency, and I worry they will keep him there for a long time. Many people are coming in, and I see what's happening," they told Telemundo 51.
The relative added that García Estrada was overcome with nerves during the incident, which led to the crash. "He told me he got very nervous, didn’t know what to do, and when he tried to brake, he couldn’t control the steering and crashed," they explained.
They emphasized that until now, the detainee had complied with immigration requirements. "He hasn’t failed to meet any obligations. He always showed up and did the right things. He had goals, had projects, was planning to enroll in nursing school," the relative continued.
The young woman interviewed urged a distinction between the criminal process and her cousin's immigration situation. "I want to tell the judge that one thing has nothing to do with the other," she concluded.
Meanwhile, García Estrada, represented by a public defender, is scheduled to return to court next month for charges related to the accident. Immigrant rights activists advise that in situations like this, individuals with irregular status should be aware of the consequences of their actions and always request to see a judge to fight against potential deportation.
Understanding the Legal and Immigration Challenges
What is an I-220A parole order?
An I-220A parole order is a temporary status allowing individuals to enter or remain in the U.S. under specific conditions, often while they await immigration proceedings.
What are the implications of resisting arrest with violence?
Resisting arrest with violence is a serious charge that can lead to severe legal consequences, including imprisonment, fines, and an impact on immigration status.
How can immigration status affect deportation proceedings?
An individual's immigration status can significantly impact deportation proceedings. Those without permanent residency or citizenship are at higher risk of deportation, especially if involved in criminal activities.
What should individuals with irregular status do if facing legal charges?
It is crucial for individuals with irregular status to seek legal counsel, understand their rights, and request to see a judge to contest any deportation order.