HE FOLLOWED THE RULES AND WAS TAKEN AWAY PLEASE HELP US BRING ANDREAS HOME
This is not something I would normally speak up about, but seeing this happen to someone I know, and someone who has trusted our system has made it impossible to stay silent. Andreas is a hardworking father who came to the United States through the legal asylum process. He has been doing what was asked of him—working, supporting his family, and trying to build a stable life.
Recently, he received a letter instructing him to report to ICE for his annual Visa check-in. Trusting that he was following the proper process, he went as requested. This appointment was on Friday, May 1st. Instead of a routine appointment, he was taken into custody. He was told he had missed a court date that he was never aware of. The notice had been marked undeliverable, and this was clearly noted as such in ICE’s system. (Ironically, I have checked Maryland‘s case search website and cannot any information on Andreas.) Despite this, he was detained, forced to sign papers without an interpreter and not given his right to a lawyer, which is offered to immigrants under the asylum visa, it’s not free but he has the right to Counsel. Instead within 48 hours, he was transferred from Maryland to a detention facility in Louisiana—far from his family and any support system. The conditions he described to his son are unimaginable. 15 Men in a cell with one bed and one toilet.
His family is now facing an incredibly difficult situation. His son, 19, who had been working alongside him, is currently recovering from a serious car accident and is unable to work. He is dealing with a language barrier, he knows some English but not enough to take on this alone, he is trusting, an amazing young man trying to hold his family together however he needs our help! At the same time, he is trying to navigate the legal process and support his family.
-This is a man who complied.
-A man who showed up when he was asked.
-A man who believed he was doing everything right.
The Family is facing:
Urgent legal fees, including securing proper representation in Louisiana
Rent and basic living expenses to avoid losing their home
Funds for communication so Andreas can stay in contact
Travel costs to attend hearings and support his case
How You Can Help
I would not be here asking if this was not serious. Those of us who know Andreas are doing what we can—but it is not enough to take on something like this alone. Your support will go directly toward:
• Legal defense
• Supporting his family’s basic needs
• Helping Andreas stay connected and fight his case
Every contribution matters. If you cannot donate, please consider sharing this with others.
This is not something I would normally speak up about, but seeing this happen to someone I know, and someone who has trusted our system has made it impossible to stay silent. Andreas is a hardworking father who came to the United States through the legal asylum process. He has been doing what was asked of him—working, supporting his family, and trying to build a stable life.
Recently, he received a letter instructing him to report to ICE for his annual Visa check-in. Trusting that he was following the proper process, he went as requested. This appointment was on Friday, May 1st. Instead of a routine appointment, he was taken into custody. He was told he had missed a court date that he was never aware of. The notice had been marked undeliverable, and this was clearly noted as such in ICE’s system. (Ironically, I have checked Maryland‘s case search website and cannot any information on Andreas.) Despite this, he was detained, forced to sign papers without an interpreter and not given his right to a lawyer, which is offered to immigrants under the asylum visa, it’s not free but he has the right to Counsel. Instead within 48 hours, he was transferred from Maryland to a detention facility in Louisiana—far from his family and any support system. The conditions he described to his son are unimaginable. 15 Men in a cell with one bed and one toilet.
His family is now facing an incredibly difficult situation. His son, 19, who had been working alongside him, is currently recovering from a serious car accident and is unable to work. He is dealing with a language barrier, he knows some English but not enough to take on this alone, he is trusting, an amazing young man trying to hold his family together however he needs our help! At the same time, he is trying to navigate the legal process and support his family.
-This is a man who complied.
-A man who showed up when he was asked.
-A man who believed he was doing everything right.
The Family is facing:
Urgent legal fees, including securing proper representation in Louisiana
Rent and basic living expenses to avoid losing their home
Funds for communication so Andreas can stay in contact
Travel costs to attend hearings and support his case
How You Can Help
I would not be here asking if this was not serious. Those of us who know Andreas are doing what we can—but it is not enough to take on something like this alone. Your support will go directly toward:
• Legal defense
• Supporting his family’s basic needs
• Helping Andreas stay connected and fight his case
Every contribution matters. If you cannot donate, please consider sharing this with others.
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