A 27-year veteran of the U.S. Army is facing a personal crisis as he fights to prevent the deportation of his wife following her unexpected detention during an immigration appointment.

Immigration Appointment Turns into Detention

U.S. Army Sergeant First Class Jose Serrano, who has served for 27 years with three tours in Afghanistan, experienced a sudden disruption to his family life on April 14th. His wife, Deisy Fidelina Rivera Ortega, was detained at a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services facility in El Paso, Texas.

Parole in Place Program Complicated

The couple attended the appointment to participate in the Parole in Place program, designed to help undocumented family members of U.S. military personnel regularize their immigration status. Instead of progress towards legal stability, Rivera Ortega was apprehended by agents, handcuffed, and removed from the facility.

Valid Work Permit and Prior Legal Grant

Rivera Ortega currently holds a valid work permit, not expiring until 2030, and is employed at IHG Army Hotels on Fort Bliss. She previously received a legal grant of withholding of removal concerning her native country, El Salvador.

Deportation Concerns and Travel Restrictions

Federal authorities are now attempting to deport Rivera Ortega, potentially to Mexico. This presents a significant challenge for the family, as military travel policies would likely prevent Sergeant Serrano from visiting or supporting his wife if she were deported to Mexico.

Legal Battle and Claims of a 'Gray Area'

The couple is pursuing legal action in federal court, represented by attorney Matthew Kozik. Kozik argues that the Department of Homeland Security is operating in a legal “gray area” regarding Rivera Ortega’s case.

The government claims Rivera Ortega is subject to a final order of removal, but her legal team contends that a 2019 court ruling granting her withholding of removal prevents immediate deportation. They assert she retains the right to contest any transfer to a third country.

Impact on Sergeant Serrano’s Health

The ordeal has significantly impacted Sergeant Serrano’s well-being. He is currently undergoing treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and reports that his progress has been halted, leading to insomnia and extreme anxiety.

Raising Questions About Military Family Treatment

This case raises important questions about the treatment of military families navigating the U.S. immigration system and highlights the emotional toll on service members when they feel their government is not protecting their families.