Medical Neglect Alleged in Custody of Shot Immigrant
A Portuguese immigrant shot by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Glen Burnie on Christmas Eve has reportedly faced significant medical neglect while in federal custody, according to one of his attorneys. Tiago Alexandre Souza Martins, 30, a Baltimore resident, was wounded in the upper right back and left thigh, resulting in a collapsed lung, as detailed in court records.
Concerns for Health and Family Impact
During his time at various detention centers following his arrest, Souza Martins was denied essential medical care, including access to a breathing machine recommended by doctors, basic medications for his gunshot wounds, and timely changes of his bandages. Alice N. Barrett, an immigration lawyer with the advocacy group CASA, expressed concerns about the emotional toll on Souza Martins’ two young children, who remain unaware of their father’s whereabouts a day before Christmas.
Calls for Family Reunification and Justice
Barrett emphasized that Souza Martins’ legal team is seeking a resolution that would reunite him with his family while also ensuring justice for their ordeal. “His health is our primary concern right now,” Barrett stated. The case has gained attention against the backdrop of previous reports regarding the lack of medical care within ICE facilities, including care for pregnant women and a temporary closure of a Baltimore facility due to poor conditions.
ICE Defends Medical Care Standards
The Department of Homeland Security, which oversees ICE, stated that Souza Martins had access to necessary medical care while in custody. In addressing earlier allegations of inadequate treatment, government officials asserted that the medical care provided was superior to that received by many immigrant detainees throughout their lives.
Escalating Incident and Legal Consequences
Sousa Martins’ troubles began on December 24 when ICE agents confronted him at a Lowe’s store in Glen Burnie. After confirming he had overstayed his visa, agents boxed in his work van. The situation escalated when officers broke a window, leading to a chase that ended with Souza Martins being shot. According to the agents, he attempted to ram their vehicle. He was later charged with misdemeanor offenses related to resisting arrest and damaging government property.
Inadequate Medical Care in Custody
Reports indicate that after being shot, Souza Martins was rushed to Maryland Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore. Barrett disclosed that upon his transfer to ICE custody in Virginia, he received some basic medical attention. However, he was not provided with the small ventilator that had been recommended for use post-discharge. Following his subsequent move to the Baltimore detention center, Barrett criticized the lack of basic care during his recovery from the shooting, highlighting that it took considerable effort for him to receive necessary medications and bandaging.
Family’s Struggles Amid Legal Woes
Souza Martins’ family, particularly his partner, is grappling with the impact of his detention. His partner was compelled to leave her job to care for their children—who celebrated their birthdays without their father—and to deal with the emotional and physical fallout from his absence. According to Barrett, the children have been told only that their father is traveling, but they miss him deeply, leading to distress during a time usually filled with holiday joy.
