Chicago, IL – Sergio Ramirez, a Chicago-area man originally from Mexico, remains in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody after his wife claims they were wrongfully detained following a wrong turn at the U.S.-Canada border.
Couple Detained After Mistake Near Canada Border
Ramirez, who has lived in the U.S. for nearly 20 years and has a U visa application pending, has been held at the Monroe County, Michigan Jail since late May. His wife, Kristina Ramirez, said the couple was in Michigan for their construction business when they mistakenly drove toward the Canadian border.
Kristina and Sergio were detained by ICE, with Kristina, a U.S. citizen, being held for three days while Sergio remains in custody.
Kristina Ramirez Speaks Out
“My heart is broken for my best friend, my husband, with whom we built a life together,” said Kristina Ramirez, visibly upset about the injustice of the situation. She added that their lives have been “derailed” by the mistake. “Now our lives are being derailed because we took one wrong turn,” she said.
Support for Sergio Ramirez
Community members, family, elected officials, and civil rights activists gathered at a Chicago church to rally for Sergio’s immediate release. Ed Yohnka, director of communication and policy for the American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois, described the case as a “human tragedy” and an example of an immigration system that is “run amok”.
Sergio Ramirez’s Immigration Status
Sergio’s immigration attorney, Andres Diaz Jr., confirmed that he has been living in the U.S. under deferred action, meaning he has protection from deportation while awaiting the approval of his U visa.
CBS News Chicago also quoted Diaz as saying, “This is the most egregious case that I’ve ever seen.”
Family Struggling with Separation
“I’m heartbroken. I’m torn,” said Kristina Ramirez, adding that the situation is “totally unfair” and “not right.” Sergio is set to return to court next week.
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