Someone dies in Florida every single day. However, when a particular death has to do with U.S. immigration law detention issues, immigrant advocates pay close attention, and often reiterate their cries for needed government reform. A 63-year-old man died while in ICE custody on a recent Monday.
This was the second immigrant death in detention in approximately a week. It is also the sixth since October. Preliminary reports indicate the death of the 63-year-old was due to a heart attack. The man who died on a recent Saturday was much younger, at age 39. Sadly, that man’s death was listed as a suicide.
Both men were residing in Florida detention centers when they died. ICE officials have issued a public statement saying the agency, as always, is committed to the health and well-being of those residing in its custody. However, there are documented reports that suggest there is ample evidence to show that substandard care is problematic in many immigration detention facilities in this state and others as well.
The man who reportedly died by his own hand while residing in a Florida detention center had been released from criminal custody regarding allegations that he had committed several felonies. It was after his release from the criminal justice system that ICE officers took him into their custody and initiated deportation proceedings against him. A U.S. immigration law attorney can provide immediate support to an immigrant who has been taken into custody, especially someone who believes his or her rights have been violated.
