Unal is currently being held in an immigration detention facility in Eden, Texas, where he is awaiting court proceedings related to his asylum case. He was detained during a routine government check-in and remains unable to work or support his family while confined. His wife, Sibel, is now caring for their 10-year-old son alone while navigating mounting legal and financial challenges.
On December 30, 2025, Unal attended a scheduled annual asylum check-in at a government office in Dallas, a standard requirement for individuals seeking asylum. The appointment was intended to confirm address and tax information. During this visit, Unal was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and later transferred to the detention facility in Eden, Texas, where he remains while awaiting court proceedings.
Unal and his wife, Sibel, moved from Turkey to Dallas in 2023 with their 10-year-old son and are currently seeking asylum in the United States. Since their arrival, they have worked to comply with all required legal processes, including obtaining work authorization and identification, attending scheduled check-ins, paying taxes, and working with an immigration attorney.
Unal has been employed in construction and has also driven for Uber to support his family. Sibel works part-time from home while caring for their child and managing their household.
Prior to coming to the U.S., Unal and Sibel were employed as a construction supervisor and a teacher. They left Turkey after experiencing persecution related to their refusal to align with their employers’ and the state’s religious affiliations, which placed their family at risk and led them to seek safety through legal asylum channels.
Sibel has been in daily contact with her husband since his detention. According to their communications, conditions in detention have been challenging. Unal is housed in an overcrowded space, and detainees must purchase bottled drinking water. The quality of meals has also made it necessary for him to supplement his food through commissary purchases.
Sibel and her son remain in Dallas. Our family knows them personally: my sister, Cheyenne, is their neighbor, and their children attend school together. Over the past year, we have become close friends. Cheyenne has assisted Sibel in navigating healthcare, and due to existing medical conditions, Sibel’s physician has stated that she should not be living alone and provided written documentation.
Sibel is seeking support to cover basic living expenses such as rent, utilities, and food, as well as commissary costs for Unal while he is detained. The family has lived in the same home for three years, and their child has attended the same school during that time. Maintaining stability during this period is especially important for their son.
In addition, Sibel needs to retain an immigration attorney to help move Unal’s case forward and navigate the court process. Legal representation is costly, and Unal is currently unable to work.
If you are able, please consider donating to assist the Altinoz family with legal fees and essential living expenses while they navigate this process. Any support is deeply appreciated.
With gratitude,
Cheyenne and Bex