Yoeli was arrested by ICE on October 3rd, and this campaign is being organized by friends of Yoeli to pay for his legal fees and an immigration lawyer.

Yoeli came to the US as a 5 year old with his family as refugees from the Democratic Republic of the Congo through Tanzania. He has lived in the US for his entire life since the age of 5. He is a long-time resident of Lexington, Tate’s Creek High School alumnus, and an active community member. He is a talented photographer and brings joy to all his friends and family. His entire family resides in the US permanently, and without his help at home, they would struggle to take care of his grandparents and siblings.

After his arrest, he was taken into custody and held in the Boone County prison system while awaiting trial. He is currently facing deportation and has not yet had the opportunity for his case to be fully heard.

The Congo is still experiencing violence and civil unrest, and Yoeli has no friends or family and no way to support himself once there. He does not speak the language and has never even visited.

All donations will go towards the $1,000 fee to reopen his case and towards $5,000 in fees for his attorney, so that he receives a fair trial and has a chance to remain here in his home.

Thank you for reading and we would greatly appreciate it if you could help fund his case! Any amount would be appreciated!!!!