In a distressing turn of events, Any Lucia Lopez Belloza, a 19-year-old freshman at Babson College, was deported to Honduras after attempting to travel from Boston to Texas for Thanksgiving. This incident occurred on November 20, as she was preparing to surprise her family.
Incident Details
Lopez Belloza had already cleared security at Boston Logan International Airport when complications with her boarding pass arose. Her attorney, Todd Pomerleau, stated that the young woman was detained by immigration officials shortly thereafter. Within two days, she was transported to Texas and subsequently to Honduras, her country of origin, which she had left at the age of seven.
Legal Challenges
- Pomerleau claims that Lopez Belloza was unaware of any deportation order.
- US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) stated that a judge ordered her deportation in 2015.
- The attorney noted that the only record he found indicates her case was closed in 2017.
According to Pomerleau, “They’re holding her responsible for something they claim happened a decade ago that she’s completely unaware of.”
Emergency Legal Action
Just a day after Lopez Belloza’s arrest, a federal judge issued an emergency order. This order prohibited the government from removing her from Massachusetts or the United States for at least 72 hours. As of now, ICE has not responded regarding the alleged violation of this court order.
Emotional Impact
Lopez Belloza is currently with her grandparents in Honduras. She expressed her heartbreak over losing the opportunity to share her first semester experiences with her parents and younger sisters. “That was my dream,” she lamented. “I’m losing everything.”
Conclusion
This incident raises significant questions about immigration procedures and the rights of students. Lopez Belloza’s case highlights the complexities involved in immigration law and the profound impacts on individuals and families.
