Last year, a man was arrested for alleged immigrations violations. He and three others had been former soldiers suspected of involvement with a massacre in Guatemala in 1982. His arrest meant that he could be deported and sent back to Guatemala.
The man requested asylum in an effort to prevent his deportation from the country. He had been working in Southern California in a factory after fleeing his home country nearly 20 years ago. The article is unclear, but it appears that the man sought asylum when he first entered the country due to fear that he would be in danger if he returned to Guatemala.
He was arrested almost a year ago by immigration officers. But just recently he appeared in court to find out whether he would be granted asylum. The federal immigration judge denied his asylum request, meaning that he would be deported.
His arrest was a part of an investigation by U.S. authorities who were trying to find individuals accused of participating in the massacre. And though Immigration and Customs Enforcement has refused to comment on the matter, there do not appear to be any criminal charges against the man in the United States. If so, that is also a means for deportation.
The man has 30 days to appeal the judge’s decision. Even so, the possibility of deportation can be frustrating and create a number of challenges. Federal immigration laws are complex and difficult to navigate. When trying to determine what to do after being denied asylum, it can be extremely beneficial to speak with someone who understands immigration laws. It can make a significant difference.
Source: The Associated Press online, “APNewsBreak: Guatemala deaths suspect faces deport,” 11 May 2011