Detention of Colombian Family in Durango Sparks Protests and Controversy
A man and his two children were detained by federal immigration officers in Durango, sparking protests. Fernando Jaramillo-Solano, along with his 12-year-old daughter and 15-year-old son, will be sent to a Texas detention center. Jaramillo-Solano, who is reported to be 45 by federal authorities and 55 by advocates, will be held in ICE custody in Dilley, Texas, while his children's whereabouts remain undisclosed.
The family's detention led to protests outside the ICE facility in Durango, with demonstrators demanding the release of the children. The protest turned violent when armed officers in camouflage clothing used pepper spray and rubber bullets on the protesters. Immigrant advocates revealed that the family is from Colombia and is seeking asylum, with strong ties to the Durango community and no criminal record.
Jaramillo-Solano, who had multiple jobs to support his family, entered the U.S. in December 2024 near San Diego, California. Despite following all legal requirements for the asylum process, ICE detained him and his children, separating them from their mother. Durango police attempted to facilitate the release of the children to their mother but were denied entry by federal agents.
ICE released a statement blaming protesters for creating unnecessary risks and delaying legal processes, without addressing the violence that occurred at the ICE facility. Durango police requested assistance from the Colorado Bureau of Investigation to investigate an incident where a federal agent threw a 57-year-old woman to the ground. The situation is still developing, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
In conclusion, the detention of Fernando Jaramillo-Solano and his children in Durango has sparked protests and raised concerns about their well-being. The family's situation highlights the challenges faced by immigrants seeking asylum in the United States and the impact of immigration enforcement policies on families and communities.