Concerns Rise Over Due Process for Venezuelan Migrant Deported to El Salvador
Franco José Caraballo Tiapa, a deported Venezuelan migrant, has no criminal record, raising concerns about due process in his case. His wife fears for his safety in a notorious El Salvador prison. DHS maintains that deportees were vetted for gang links, but many lack criminal histories. The situation underscores serious implications for migrants’ rights.
Families of Venezuelan migrants recently deported to an El Salvador prison express concern that not all are gang members. One case involves Franco José Caraballo Tiapa, a 26-year-old Venezuelan barber who entered the U.S. in 2023 seeking asylum. His wife, Johanny Sánchez, lost contact with him after he was detained during a routine check-in with ICE in Texas. An attorney for Caraballo suspects he has been deported, despite documents indicating he has no criminal record.
A document from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) suggests Caraballo is linked to the gang Tren de Aragua but confirms he has no criminal history in either the U.S. or Venezuela. Attorney Martin Rosenow highlighted that Caraballo was denied due process, stating, “He was not able to defend this allegation.” While the DHS document mentions tattoos on Caraballo, it does not link them directly to gang affiliation.
The Trump administration claims that all deported Venezuelans had gang ties, but a recent ICE official declaration notes that “many” deported migrants do not have criminal records. Sánchez is anxiously searching for her husband among images of recent deportees.
Her primary concern revolves around the lack of communication and access to CECOT, the prison notorious for its isolation. Rosenow emphasized, “Who has jurisdiction?” raising concerns about who oversees the fate of deported individuals like Caraballo.
Sánchez remains hopeful for justice and mercy from both El Salvador and the U.S. She articulated her frustration, saying, “Just because of being Venezuelans, they can’t judge us all for being criminals.” Meanwhile, the DHS maintains that it adheres to the law and has confidence in its intelligence, but it has not elaborated on Caraballo’s specific situation. Caraballo’s attorney fears the U.S. courts may have lost authority over his case, while Salvadoran officials have ceased providing updates on the deportees.
The situation of Venezuelan migrant Franco José Caraballo raises concerns regarding U.S. immigration practices and due process rights for asylum seekers. Despite claims of gang affiliations, documentation shows Caraballo has no criminal history. His wife’s desperate search highlights the challenges faced by families of deported migrants, especially regarding access and oversight in foreign prisons. The ongoing uncertainty emphasizes the need for clarity and fairness in immigration enforcement.
Original Source: www.cbsnews.com
