Unjust ICE detention: Héctor Márquez’s ordeal in Los Angeles

Since February, Héctor Márquez has lived in fear due to an unjust ICE detention caused by a case of mistaken identity. Detained first outside his home and later taken to the Adelanto Detention Center, this worker and father now faces emotional, legal consequences and an immigration process that could change his future. Learn what happened, its impact on his family, and the legal steps being taken to reverse this situation.

The incident that started it all

In February, Héctor was stopped by ICE agents while leaving his Anaheim home: his truck was surrounded, struck, and they tried to force him out. They showed an arrest warrant that belonged to someone else, and although he avoided initial detention, fear settled into his family’s daily life.

The second arrest and Adelanto detention

On a subsequent visit, officers forced him out of his vehicle, handcuffed him, and transferred him to Adelanto Detention Center, where he remained for six weeks until a $10,000 bond was paid.

Personal and emotional consequences

For Héctor and his wife Cristina, the impact was devastating. He confesses that he wakes up “with a knot in his stomach” every morning, and she described constant anxiety and sadness during his detention. Héctor also witnessed dramatic cases in Adelanto — such as people who spoke neither English nor Spanish, separated from their families.

The legal fight for justice

Led by his attorney, Denise P. Cabrera, Héctor is exploring several legal avenues to overturn the detention. Denise Cabrera is a renowned immigration lawyer based in Santa Ana, CA, certified by the California State Bar, with extensive experience in complex cases.

Legal strategy to overturn the order

The main path is a cancellation of removal, supported by his marriage to a U.S. citizen, more than a decade living in the U.S., and a clean criminal record. They also have the backing of his stepson — a member of the military — which strengthens their advance parole (PIP) petition.

Context of sanctuary-city raids

His case occurred amid a wave of ICE raids under former President Trump in sanctuary cities like Los Angeles, where ICE expanded immigration operations and planned mass arrests. These actions triggered protests from June onward, with over 550 arrests and at least 10 injured officers.

What’s next for Héctor?

His next hearing is scheduled for October. There he will present his defense based on family ties, a clean record, and strong legal representation. If successful, he could obtain legal status that would allow him to remain in the country and avoid future arbitrary detentions.

If you or a loved one are facing a similar situation, you can contact attorney Denise P. Cabrera for expert legal representation. Visit her website for more information and to request a consultation: https://www.attorneydpc.com/

This case highlights the vulnerability of many families when it comes to detentions based on errors and immigration raids. Héctor Márquez’s story demonstrates the importance of timely legal assistance, staying informed, and relying on community support to face such challenges.