Visa-Holder Detained by ICE Facing Imminent Execution for Political Persecution if Deported:

Rafael Flores-Garcia, a Venezuelan immigrant, fled to the United States four years ago, seeking asylum from political persecution. He was detained by ICE on July 28th, 2025 at an immigration center while attending his Visa renewal interview in Dallas, Texas. Despite Mr. Flores having no criminal record, an expedited deportation attempt was made, without due process, by Bluebonnet Detention Center. The attempt was blocked, then Mr. Flores was subsequently held in ICE detainment, without an option to post bail.

Fear and terror consistently looms over the lives of Mr. Flores and his entire family. The political climate in Venezuela has deteriorated over the past four years, making it even more dangerous than ever, especially for those who openly oppose President Maduro's corruption. In Venezuela, Mr. Flores was known as an open protestor and political activist who strongly advocated for the restoration of the country's democracy and its free elections. In retaliation for his political activism, Mr. Flores faces imminent execution by the Venezuelan government; turning a constant threat of deportation by ICE into a form of cruel, psychological torment.

At the court hearing held August 28th, 2025, Judge Jessica Miles voiced her confusion as to why Mr. Flores was even detained in the first place, openly criticizing ICE's behavior and their failure to release him despite them having proof of his Visa status. Shortly following the hearing, Mr. Flores was abruptly transferred to Karnes County Immigration Processing Center on September 4th, 2025, after a second expedited, non-due process deportation attempt by ICE had failed. Another hearing is scheduled for October 22nd.

Mr. Flores began welding at the age of 14, and is a highly skilled tradesman who contributes greatly to the US economy. “In my professional opinion, Mr. Flores is not only a highly valued employee, but also an essential contributor to our organization's success.”, states Kevin Traynor, President and CEO of JGM, “He possesses an exceptional level of skill and experience in a field where qualified professionals are increasingly difficult to find. Losing Mr. Flores to deportation would not only be a personal and professional loss for our team- it would also negatively impact our operations and further deepen the skilled labor gap in our industry.”

Mr. Flores has been betrayed by the very country that promised to help protect him; one that he was so proud to contribute to. Like many others, he was targeted by ICE simply because of his country of origin and his native language; going against everything that our Statue of Liberty represents. Detaining and deporting highly skilled, law abiding residents like Mr. Flores, not only wastes government funding and hurts the US economy, but most importantly, it tears families apart and destroys innocent people's lives.

All donations will go toward assisting the family with the legal expenses associated with securing his release. You may also help by signing our petition at the following link: https://chng.it/RcJtrbN8NY