SAN DIEGO (AP) — The father of a Marine who visited his pregnant daughter at Camp Pendleton was detained by immigration authorities, revealing a complicated immigration history with prior arrests for domestic violence and aggravated assault. Esteban Rios was initially deported from the U.S. in 1999 and faced multiple removal orders thereafter, according to the Department of Homeland Security.
Steve Rios, the Marine, reported that his father was detained during a family visit and later released with an ankle monitor. When he checked in again at an ICE office, his father was re-detained and later deported on October 10. Homeland Security's statement came after publications raised questions regarding Esteban Rios' criminal history and immigration status, previously stating that “criminal illegal aliens are not welcome in the U.S.”
Steve Rios, who credits his parents for his enlistment in the Marines, spoke about their hard work since immigrating from Mexico, driving home the emotional weight of this family ordeal. He emphasized their aspirations and sacrifices that shaped his commitment to serve.
The family's recent visit to Pendleton was commonplace, intended to support Steve’s younger sister, who is expecting a child. The Rios family, claiming that Esteban and his wife had no criminal records and were pursuing green card applications sponsored by Steve, felt blindsided by the detention. As discussions continue about immigration policy and enforcement, questions remain about the implications of such actions on families navigating the complex system.
Steve Rios, the Marine, reported that his father was detained during a family visit and later released with an ankle monitor. When he checked in again at an ICE office, his father was re-detained and later deported on October 10. Homeland Security's statement came after publications raised questions regarding Esteban Rios' criminal history and immigration status, previously stating that “criminal illegal aliens are not welcome in the U.S.”
Steve Rios, who credits his parents for his enlistment in the Marines, spoke about their hard work since immigrating from Mexico, driving home the emotional weight of this family ordeal. He emphasized their aspirations and sacrifices that shaped his commitment to serve.
The family's recent visit to Pendleton was commonplace, intended to support Steve’s younger sister, who is expecting a child. The Rios family, claiming that Esteban and his wife had no criminal records and were pursuing green card applications sponsored by Steve, felt blindsided by the detention. As discussions continue about immigration policy and enforcement, questions remain about the implications of such actions on families navigating the complex system.
