Julio Is Finally Home — But His Fight Is Not Over
After months of fear, uncertainty, and separation, Julio Cortes Ontiveros has finally been granted release on bond — and as of yesterday, he is back home in Brooklyn with his sons. On March 25, 2026, an immigration judge reviewed his case and ordered that Julio be released under a $15,000 bond, recognizing his deep ties to the United States and his unwavering commitment to his two U.S.-born sons, Gabriel (14) and Erick (12).
This decision was a monumental step toward reuniting a father with his children — and thanks to the generosity of this community, that reunion has now happened.
Yesterday, Julio made the long journey from California back to New York. When he arrived home, Gabriel and Erick ran into his arms with a force that only months of longing, fear, and love could create. The relief on their faces, the way Julio held them as if he would never let go — it was a moment that will stay with this family forever.
Your donations made this possible.
You helped bring a father home...
Julio’s Story
Julio came to the United States in 2006 seeking safety, stability, and the chance to build a better life through hard work. For nearly 20 years, he has lived, worked, and raised his family here. His sons, Gabriel and Erick, are the center of his world, and he has dedicated his life to giving them the security and opportunities he never had.
On January 8th of this year, everything changed.
While taking his younger son to soccer practice, Julio was unexpectedly detained by ICE and transferred to a detention center in California — thousands of miles from his home in New York. The sudden separation was devastating for his children, who struggled daily with the trauma of losing their father without warning.
Throughout his detention, Julio remained strong. He completed all required immigration interviews, stayed in constant communication with his sons through the GettingOut app, and held onto hope that he would one day return home to them.
Yesterday, that hope became reality.
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What Comes Next — and Why Your Support Still Matters
Although Julio is finally home, his case is far from over. His release came with strict conditions, including enrollment in the ATD (Alternatives to Detention) program and the placement of a GPS monitoring device. He must now attend multiple check-ins, comply with supervision requirements, and prepare for his upcoming immigration hearings.
His detention also left him with no income, no savings, and significant financial strain.
The family now faces:
• Ongoing legal fees as Julio continues fighting his case
• Child support and household expenses that accumulated during his detention
• Travel, communication, and supervision costs required under ATD
• The long-term financial recovery from nearly three months of lost wages and crisis-related expenses
Every contribution helps Julio stabilize, support his sons, and continue his legal battle from a place of safety and dignity.
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A Father Fighting for His Future
Despite everything he has endured, Julio remains focused on one thing: giving Gabriel and Erick the life they deserve. Now that he is home, he can finally hug them, guide them, and be present in their daily lives — but he still needs our help to secure a future where they never have to fear losing him again.
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How You Can Help
Your contribution — no matter the amount — directly supports Julio’s recovery and his ongoing fight to remain with his children.
You are helping protect a family that has already endured more than most could imagine.
Thank you for standing with Julio, for believing in him, and for helping make this homecoming possible.
With immense gratitude,
Anthony Roper