Jafet Santiago Diaz, 25, fled Colombia due to threats against his life linked to his sexual orientation. During his asylum hearing in San Francisco, federal prosecutors attempted to dismiss his claim, but the judge instead scheduled a follow-up court date. However, ICE agents detained Diaz immediately after the hearing, leading to protests outside the courthouse. Immigration advocates noted that other detainees were arrested the same day, emphasizing the heightened risks immigrants face during these proceedings. Diaz is currently held at the Mesa Verde detention facility, known for past reports of mistreatment.
"I'm so afraid of going back," said Diaz during Tuesday's hearing. "I fear for my life."
Diaz is from Villavicencio, Colombia. He identifies as gay, and he came to the United States in February 2024 after receiving death threats because of his sexual orientation.
According to immigration advocates, at least three other men were arrested Tuesday afternoon by federal officials - their identities still unknown.
It didn't matter. ICE agents swiftly detained Diaz as he left the courtroom around 1 p.m. In video captured by Mission Local, ICE agents can be seen escorting Diaz out of the courthouse as a crowd of protesters gathered.
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