A journalist in a neighboring state is facing deportation after he was arrested for covering a protest. Although he has lived and worked in the United States for many years, U.S. immigration law could dictate that he return to a country that he says is not safe for him. Louisiana immigrants who are dealing with similar issues may want to take note of the appeals process that the journalist has used to delay deportation thus far.
After being on the receiving end of death threats for his journalistic work, the man left his home country of El Salvador and arrived in the United States as an undocumented immigration in 2006. He has since worked as a journalist, even running a news outlet that reported on the effects of immigration policies on the local Hispanic community. He was reporting on demonstrators who were protesting current immigration policies when area police apparently ordered everyone to clear the streets.
In 2007, he was issued an order for deportation for failing to show for a court date. However, he argues that he was never given any notice for a court date, and his criminal charges have since been dropped. The journalist is currently in a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in Louisiana and has been pursuing the appeals process. He now plans to ask for asylum, as he believes that conditions are worsening in his home country, making it extremely dangerous for him to return.
Living in Louisiana as an undocumented immigrant can be extremely worrying. Many people might feel the constant presence of U.S. immigration law, and feel unsure of how to proceed when faced with ICE or other legal entities. To avoid receiving an order of deportation or to pursue an appeal, working with a professional is usually well-advised for those who feel confused by the complicated nature of these laws.