Deisy Rivera Ortega’s detention by ICE has sparked significant concern among her family and advocates. On April 14, 2023, she was taken into custody during an immigration appointment in El Paso, Texas. Rivera Ortega has lived in the U.S. since 2016 and married U.S. service member Jose Serrano in 2022. Her situation highlights the complexities surrounding immigration enforcement, especially for individuals with legal protections.
Rivera Ortega received legal protection in 2019 that prohibits her deportation to El Salvador. However, the Department of Homeland Security claims she entered the U.S. illegally. This contradiction raises questions about the validity of her detention. She was ordered deported on December 12, 2019, after what officials termed “full due process.” Yet, her active work permit allowed her to work at two hotels inside Fort Bliss at the time of her detention.
Jose Serrano submitted a Parole in Place application on behalf of Rivera Ortega, which is still pending. Serrano expressed deep concern over his wife’s potential deportation—especially to Mexico, where she has no ties. He stated, “We don’t know nobody in Mexico.” The emotional toll on Serrano is evident; he has experienced worsening symptoms of traumatic brain injury, PTSD, and depression since his wife’s detention.
ICE’s online detainee tracking system confirmed that Rivera Ortega is being held at the El Paso processing center. Serrano fears that if she is sent to Mexico, he may not be able to see her without jeopardizing his military career. He noted, “I don’t really understand why, because she followed the rules of immigration by the T since day one.” His frustration reflects a broader sentiment regarding immigration enforcement practices.
Matthew Kozik, an attorney representing Rivera Ortega, filed a habeas petition arguing that her detention is unlawful. He described the situation as absurd and indicative of ICE’s current practices: “ICE is out of control right now… taking away rights that we have as soldiers.” This case underscores ongoing tensions within U.S. immigration policy and its impact on military families.
Historically, ICE has refrained from arresting immediate relatives of U.S. service members. However, detentions have increased under recent administrations. The exact reasons for Rivera Ortega’s detention despite her legal protections remain unclear. Details remain unconfirmed regarding how this case may evolve in the coming weeks.
The outcome of the pending Parole in Place application is uncertain. Advocates for Rivera Ortega hope for a favorable resolution that allows her to remain with her family in the U.S., but the complexities of immigration law continue to pose challenges for many like her.
