UPDATE: Victor Cruz-Gamez, a 55-year-old resident of Hillsboro, Oregon, has been released from an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility in Tacoma after being wrongfully held for nearly a month. This urgent development comes following a federal district court judge’s order on November 3, 2023.
Cruz-Gamez, who operates a home remodeling business, was arrested on October 14 when ICE agents mistakenly identified him while searching for another individual named Victor Cruz with a history of drunk driving. His daughter, Atziri Cruz, expressed relief at her father’s release, emphasizing the toll the wrongful detention took on their family.
“My father is an innocent man and an upstanding member of our community,” Atziri Cruz stated. “This ordeal has been incredibly stressful for our family, and we’re grateful he is finally home.”
Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici announced Cruz-Gamez’s release in a statement, highlighting that he was freed on a $3,000 bond. “I’m grateful that his wrongful detention has come to an end and that he is reunited with his family,” Bonamici said. “It is unacceptable that ICE continues to terrorize communities and tear families apart. I will do everything I can to hold those responsible accountable.”
Cruz-Gamez holds legal work authorization and has a pending visa claim, further underscoring the injustice of his detention. The case has raised significant concerns regarding ICE’s practices and the impact of wrongful detentions on families across the nation.
This situation underscores the urgent need for reform in immigration enforcement. As the community rallies around Cruz-Gamez, many are calling for greater accountability from ICE to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Authorities now face pressure to assess their protocols to ensure individuals are not wrongfully detained based on mistaken identities. The repercussions of Cruz-Gamez’s case will likely resonate beyond Hillsboro, prompting discussions on immigration policy at both local and national levels.
As this story develops, further updates on the implications for ICE’s policies and practices are expected. Community members are encouraged to stay informed and engaged as they seek justice for those affected by wrongful detentions.
