A decorated U.S. Army sergeant is facing a family separation crisis after his wife was unexpectedly detained by immigration officials. Sergeant First Class Jose Serrano, a 27-year veteran with three deployments to Afghanistan, is working to prevent the deportation of his wife, Deisy Fidelina Rivera Ortega.

Unexpected Detention

Rivera Ortega was taken into custody on April 14 in El Paso, Texas, during an appointment related to the Parole in Place program. This program is designed to provide a pathway to legal status for undocumented family members of U.S. military service members.

A Harrowing Scene

According to Serrano, unidentified officials apprehended his wife in the hallway of a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services facility, handcuffing and removing her without explanation. He described being left in a state of shock and distress.

Legal Dispute and Prior Protections

Rivera Ortega currently works at IHG Army Hotels on Fort Bliss and possesses a valid work permit until 2030. She previously received legal protection through withholding of removal from El Salvador.

Conflicting Claims

The Department of Homeland Security claims Rivera Ortega entered the country illegally and is subject to a final order of removal. However, her attorney, Matthew Kozik, disputes this, stating an immigration judge granted her withholding of removal in 2019, which should prevent immediate deportation.

Deportation to Mexico

Kozik argues the government is attempting to circumvent due process by potentially deporting her to Mexico, where she has no ties, instead of her home country of El Salvador.

Impact on the Veteran

Sergeant Serrano’s active-duty status restricts his ability to travel to Mexico, potentially leading to permanent family separation. Military regulations may prevent him from supporting his wife abroad.

Mental Health Strain

The situation has significantly impacted Serrano’s mental health, as he manages Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. He reports a decline in his condition, including insomnia and difficulty performing daily tasks, due to the distress caused by his wife’s detention.

Ongoing Legal Battle

The case has moved to federal court, with attorneys seeking to halt any immediate action and demand transparency from the government. The situation highlights tensions between immigration enforcement and support for military families.