Family Appeals to ICE for Daniel Romero’s Release
The family of Daniel Romero, an 18-year-old recent graduate from Ooltewah High School, is urgently requesting the intervention of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to secure his return home. Romero was detained by ICE just four days after he celebrated his graduation at Mackenzie Arena.
His mother, Alexandrea Romero, expressed her distress to Local 3 News during a Spanish-language interview, stating, “I think it’s unfair. He graduated from high school last Thursday. He’s a good kid.”
Routine Immigration Appointment Turns into Detention
According to his parents, the family attended what they believed to be a routine immigration appointment at the Immigration Center in Chattanooga. Currently, the Romeros are enrolled in an “Alternatives to Detention” (ADT) program aimed at allowing individuals to remain within their communities as they navigate their immigration cases.
ICE describes the ADT program as a way for individuals to maintain community ties and address their immigration matters while contributing positively to their families and community. However, the program comes with strict supervision requirements, including weekly photo submissions and ankle monitoring.
Unexpected Separation at Immigration Office
During their visit to the immigration office, Daniel was separated from his parents due to his age and placed in a separate room. His parents considered this unusual since they had always attended family appointments together. During this time, they were informed that Daniel was now in ICE custody due to several alleged immigration violations.
Confusion Surrounds Alleged Violations
When the Romeros inquired about the specifics of these violations, ICE officials mentioned that Daniel failed to complete his required weekly photo check-ins. His stepfather, Giovanni Valderrama, recounted, “When we asked about what the actual violation was, they said he didn’t take any pictures. He missed one of the photos we were supposed to take every week.”
ICE Responds to Allegations of Improper Detainment
In response to the family’s concerns, an ICE spokesperson confirmed the detention, stating that Romero was placed in custody due to serious violations of ADT requirements. According to ICE, missing four required check-ins led to his termination from the program.
Community Support and Outrage
The community has rallied around the Romero family, with many expressing disbelief over the circumstances surrounding Daniel’s detention. Rebecca Langford, Romero’s former teacher, emphasized that he is the opposite of a threat, describing him as kind and respectful. “We’re literally doing the opposite of a dangerous person,” she said, reflecting widespread sentiments among those who know Daniel.
Fundraisers Launched to Cover Legal Costs
Support for the Romeros is growing, with Daniel’s classmates organizing a fundraiser at Little Debbie Park on May 22 to assist with legal expenses. Additionally, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help cover the family’s legal costs during this challenging time.
