Community concerns are growing as 15-year-old Emmanuel Gonzales-Garcia, an autistic boy who functions at the developmental level of a 5-year-old, remains in the custody of the Office of Refugee Resettlement. Emmanuel went missing nearly two weeks ago, prompting his family, local leaders, and a U.S. Congressman to call for his release. On October 4, his mother reported him missing to the Houston Police Department, and HPD Chief Noe Diaz said, "We did our very best with the resources and the information that the child had given us,” according to KHOU. Confusion arose because the name Emmanuel gave officers did not match the missing person report, which led to an interagency process and his transfer to Office of Refugee Resettlement.
A vigil was held to show support for Emanuel and his family. Cesar Espinoza, Executive Director for FIEL, said, "We shouldn't be here today, Emanuel should be with Mom in the best care." U.S. Congressman Al Green added, “I know this is a mother who loves her child, and this mother should have the opportunity to be with her child, especially as he's in recovery," as reported by FOX26 Houston.
Emmanuel Gonzales-Garcia, who is in federal custody, recently had an appendectomy. His mother and supporters are seeking for him to be reunited with his family during recovery. Advocacy group FIEL Houston was removed from a city council meeting after protesting Chief Diaz’s reported refusal to meet with the family. Police bodycam footage has not yet been released.
