Deportation Order Disrupts Life of Kearney Businessman
OMAHA — A prominent Kearney, Nebraska, businessman faced a devastating blow as approximately 2,500 petition signers and a packed courtroom of supporters were unable to prevent his deportation. On Tuesday, an immigration judge in Omaha mandated that Carlos Godinez be returned to Guatemala, a country he left as a child and has not visited since the age of 10, 37 years ago.
Judge Abby Meyer cited Godinez’s history of misdemeanor offenses during the brief hearing, which lasted under 15 minutes and included virtual participation from Godinez. His sister, Rose Godinez, expressed concern that he was unable to adequately defend himself or discuss his record during the session.
“We don’t know what’s going to happen next and we’re feeling a lot of anxiety,” Rose shared. Following the hearing, Carlos expressed his eagerness to embrace his children, even if it has to be from the other side of the border.
Godinez’s case is particularly noteworthy given immigrants’ tendencies to avoid drawing attention to their status. His connections on social media played a crucial role in rallying support and generating a significant number of petition signatures aimed at influencing judicial decisions. Compliments and accolades flooded in from patrons of Nick’s Gyros, the restaurant he owned and operated for nearly 15 years in Kearney, where his family has lived for around four decades.
Supporters submitted approximately 100 letters to the court, commending Godinez for his community contributions and fundraising efforts. Immigration attorney Rachel Yamamoto remarked that the judge ultimately deemed Godinez’s negative contributions as outweighing any positives he had offered to the community. Despite knowing the challenges he faced, Godinez remained determined to fight his case.
Rebuilding a Life from Afar
In a private virtual conversation authorized by the judge, Godinez attempted to reassure his children and family members following the disappointing ruling. He conveyed optimism about starting anew in Guatemala, stating, “I’m an entrepreneur. I’m going to build a life again in Guatemala. This isn’t the end. See you again.” However, his criminal history, including a marijuana possession charge in 2018 and a DUI in 2022, complicates his situation. Immigration experts point out that drug-related convictions hinder opportunities for deportation relief under federal law.
Godinez, now 47, has also faced legal issues related to driving under the influence and misdemeanor assault. After being detained by ICE on March 11, 2023, he has been held in Hall County Jail following a probation violation related to his driving privileges.
Limited Options and Community Support
Yamamoto emphasized that Godinez’s plight underscores the precarious circumstances non-citizens face regardless of their accomplishments in the U.S. “His life has been overwhelmingly positive,” she stated. “He has given more to the community than he has taken with these minor criminal charges.”
In court, nearly 50 supporters gathered to speak on his behalf, a testament to the bonds he has formed in Nebraska. Godinez, unlike many, opted not to rely on familial status for his residency—an ethos described by Rose as a “pull yourself up kind of guy.” Although he once had opportunities to secure legal residency, the age requirements for his U.S.-born children and the lengthy waitlists for family petitions complicated his options.
The American Dream at Risk
In a statement just before his hearing, Godinez articulated his belief that hard work can lead to success, reflecting on the American Dream he sought to achieve. However, the uncertainty surrounding his deportation threatens the future of his business and his ability to support his family, raising many unanswered questions.
Rose articulated the deep sense of loss and anxiety the family feels regarding Carlos’s impending relocation. He has distant relatives in Guatemala but no immediate support network or professional prospects to aid him in his transition. Despite the grim outlook, his family expressed profound gratitude for the overwhelming support they’ve received from the Nebraska community and beyond, bridging connections that speak to Carlos’s impact on those around him.
“That smile, that heart follows him wherever he goes,” Rose concluded, maintaining that no matter where life takes Carlos, he will continue to contribute positively to society.
