Andry Hernández-Romero, a gay makeup artist, sought asylum in the U.S. from Venezuela due to persecution but was instead deported to a Salvadoran prison. He was released as part of a prisoner swap but faced the prospect of returning to Venezuela. He fled due to anti-LGBTQ+ violence and had previously passed a credible fear interview. The Trump administration had invoked the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 against him, citing unfounded gang ties based on tattoos. Advocates feared for his safety and health in the notorious prison, known for inhumane conditions.
Hernández-Romero entered the U.S. legally in 2024, fleeing anti-LGBTQ+ violence and political persecution. After passing a credible fear interview, he was deported after showing up for an appointment.
Officials accused Hern ández-Romero of gang ties based on crown tattoos above the names of his parents, though his attorneys say he has no criminal record.
Since March, he and the other Venezuelan deportees have been held in a notorious prison known as CECOT, which has a reputation for torture and anti-LGBTQ+ violence.
Democratic U.S. Rep. Robert Garcia has been advocating for Hernández-Romero's release. His family and lawyer feared he would die in Salvadoran prison.
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