The Brooklyn community has responded to the detention of Deacon Sebastian Ordonez, a church leader who was taken into custody by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents on Thursday. Councilwoman Susan Zhuang and other local officials have asked for information about the operation that resulted in Ordonez’s arrest. Zhuang noted that Ordonez did not have a criminal record during his nearly 20 years in the community. Faith leader Bishop Erick Salgado also addressed the ICE activity in the area. According to CBS News, concerns grew after an early morning raid in Bensonhurst.
Ordonez, a 58-year-old deacon from Guatemala, has been involved in the community for 17 years. The operation took place amid ongoing uncertainty among some immigrants regarding their legal status. Community leader Bishop Erick Salgado reported ICE activity at local train stations and highlighted concerns about potential racial profiling. CBS News cites current Department of Homeland Security data showing that roughly 70,000 individuals are in ICE custody facing deportation, the highest number in the agency’s 23-year history.
Michael Musa-Obregon, Ordonez’s lawyer, said that although his client may not have legal immigration status, he is entitled to due process. In a statement reported by FOX59, Musa-Obregon also expressed concern over the practice of targeting individuals based on appearance or perceived characteristics.
In response to the detention and a visa policy affecting citizens from 75 countries, community members and leaders gathered yesterday to voice concerns about federal immigration enforcement and to advocate for Ordonez’s release. Councilmember Zhuang emphasized the importance of due process, FOX59 reported. The case has attracted local attention, and calls for a review of ICE’s enforcement practices are ongoing.
