Concerns Arise for Venezuelan Migrant Deported to El Salvador Without Due Process

Franco José Caraballo Tiapa, a Venezuelan migrant without a criminal record, was reportedly deported to El Salvador, raising concerns over due process. His wife fears for his safety in the infamous CECOT prison, and his attorney describes jurisdictional ambiguities regarding his custody. The situation underscores broader worries about the treatment of deported migrants.

Recent reports indicate that members of the Trump administration deported several Venezuelan migrants to a prison in El Salvador, where not all are allegedly involved in gang activities. One individual of concern is 26-year-old Franco José Caraballo Tiapa, whose wife, Johanny Sánchez, fears he was among those deported. Documentation has revealed that Caraballo possesses no criminal record.

Caraballo, who entered the United States in 2023 seeking asylum, was apprehended during a routine immigration check in Texas. Following his detention, he lost contact with his wife, leading his attorney to suspect that he has already been deported. A Department of Homeland Security document indicates Caraballo is linked to the Tren de Aragua gang, although there is no evidence of a criminal history.

His attorney, Martin Rosenow, criticized the lack of due process afforded to Caraballo, stating that he was unable to defend himself against the allegations. While the DHS document refers to Caraballo’s tattoos, it does not connect them explicitly to gang activity. The Trump administration asserts that all deported Venezuelans had gang affiliations, but officials from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) stated that many deportees lack criminal records.

Sánchez continues to search for her husband among the recent deportees while expressing her concerns for his safety in the notorious CECOT prison, known for its lack of communication and access for inmates. Rosenow echoed her concerns regarding jurisdiction and custody of Caraballo, expressing uncertainty about who governs his situation—El Salvador, ICE, or the U.S. government.

Sánchez remains hopeful for compassion from both American and Salvadoran authorities. She emphasized, “Just because of being Venezuelans, they can’t judge us all for being criminals.” Despite inquiries about Caraballo’s case, DHS has yet to provide definitive answers, and Salvadoran officials have refused to disclose additional information about the deportees.

This situation highlights serious concerns regarding the deportation practices under the Trump administration, particularly concerning the lack of due process for those accused. The plight of Franco José Caraballo Tiapa raises questions regarding jurisdiction and the safety of deported individuals. Advocates continue to call for accountability and compassion amid the complex legal challenges faced by asylum seekers and deportees alike.

Original Source: www.cbsnews.com