IOWA CITY, Iowa (RTW News) — An immigration judge has denied bond to Felipe de Jesus Hernandez Marcelo, 28, who has been held by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) since seeking police assistance as a victim of a near-fatal shooting in Iowa. This ruling means Hernandez will stay in custody as his deportation proceedings continue.
Hernandez, originally from Mexico, entered the United States illegally in 2021. He was shot during a robbery attempt in Muscatine on June 21, prompting him to request help from authorities. However, after seeking assistance for the recovery of his stolen belongings days later, he was arrested on an outstanding warrant for unpaid traffic tickets and subsequently transferred to ICE.
While recovering in custody, Hernandez has missed essential medical appointments and has been separated from his 9-year-old son, whom he raises alone. His legal representation argued for his release, highlighting his cooperation with law enforcement and the psychological toll of his detention.
Judge Alexandra Larsen ruled against him, stating there were concerns about his flight risk and emphasizing that he had previously violated laws during his time in the U.S. Despite his legal troubles, Hernandez is pursuing a U visa application, which aims to protect crime victims from deportation.
As Hernandez's attorneys continue their battle for his release, his case raises questions about the impact of immigration policies affecting individuals who come forward as victims of crime.
