Family Faces Uncertainty Following Son’s Detention by ICE

Graduation and Future Plans Interrupted

Wilber Urbina Garcia had a busy agenda planned the day following his high school graduation. As the first in his family to graduate, he was eager to collect his diploma, return textbooks, and enroll for classes at El Camino College. However, these plans were postponed due to a scheduled check-in with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), a routine since the family sought asylum from Nicaragua in late 2022.

Departing their home in South Los Angeles early in the morning, the family arrived at the federal courthouse for an 8 a.m. appointment. They returned home that evening without Wilber, who had been detained by immigration agents. “All he wanted was to learn, but all of his dreams just came crashing down,” said Wilber’s brother, Winston Garcia. The family now faces uncertainty about Wilber’s situation.

Academic Achievements and Family Support

Despite his reserved nature, Wilber flourished during his high school years, achieving academic honors. His family celebrated his graduation with pride, capturing moments with friends, teachers, and counselors who later rushed to provide character references upon learning of his detention. They described Wilber as dedicated and disciplined in his studies, possessing leadership qualities and a growing command of English.

Wilber also engaged in leisure activities, enjoying vintage video games and learning baseball with friends. He prepared traditional Nicaraguan meals for his family, yet prioritized his schoolwork. The Garcia family fled political persecution in Nicaragua, hoping for better opportunities in the U.S. Their lawyer, Armineh Ebrahimian, highlighted that despite their asylum application, the family is facing legal challenges.

Legal and Emotional Challenges

Yadira Garcia, Wilber’s mother, found stability in Los Angeles, but now worries about job security due to frequent ICE appointments. The family’s asylum application is divided into two cases. Routine check-ins became more frequent, with no apparent cause for alarm, until Wilber was suddenly detained.

Ebrahimian argues Wilber’s detention was unwarranted, as he was a “derivative” on his mother’s asylum case when filed. Immigration lawyer Edgardo Quintanilla supports the view that children should remain tied to a parent’s application until 21. However, being detained remains a risk regardless of application status, and the family’s uncertainty grows with each passing day.

Detention and Future Hopes

Wilber is currently held at Adelanto ICE Processing Center, distressed but hopeful for release. Ebrahimian is striving to secure a hearing and bond for Wilber. She has submitted letters from teachers and counselors advocating for his release. Winston Garcia, currently a legal resident, continues to support his brother, haunted by thoughts of Wilber’s well-being.

Anxious about losing her job due to constant check-ins, Yadira Garcia remains determined. In their home, Wilber’s cap and gown serve as a reminder of his accomplishments, adorned with a message of gratitude to God. The family clings to hope, seeking a resolution that reunites them and restores Wilber’s path toward education and a brighter future.