May 27, 2025 Bronx, NY – The recent detention of Dylan, a 20-year-old Venezuelan high school student, by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has sent shockwaves through the New York City immigrant community and public school system. Dylan, who sought asylum after fleeing Venezuela and entering the U.S. through a Biden-era program, was arrested immediately following a routine immigration court hearing in lower Manhattan. This incident highlights growing concerns about ICE courthouse arrests and the expedited removal process impacting vulnerable individuals, including students.
A Journey for a Better Future Cut Short
Dylan's story is one of resilience and determination. After a traumatic journey that included being kidnapped in Mexico, he reunited with his mother, Raiza, and two younger siblings in the Bronx. He quickly found part-time work as a delivery driver to support his family, striving to move them out of a homeless shelter. Despite having completed high school in Venezuela, he enrolled at ELLIS Prep, a Bronx high school dedicated to older immigrant newcomers, with aspirations of attending college.
His commitment to "doing the right thing" led him to attend his mandatory court date last Wednesday, May 21st, assuming it would be a routine check-in. Instead, without legal representation, Dylan unknowingly forfeited his legal protections. ICE agents were reportedly waiting, arresting him in the courthouse lobby as part of a nationwide surge of immigration arrests at courthouses.
The Controversial "Expedited Removal" Strategy
Dylan's arrest exemplifies a troubling trend: government lawyers are increasingly asking judges to dismiss migrant cases, only to immediately reopen them as "expedited removal" cases. This tactic allows authorities to apprehend individuals on the spot and initiate a fast-tracked deportation process with significantly fewer legal safeguards.
"It seems like a dirty game on their part," shared Raiza, Dylan's mother, expressing her dismay. "When someone appears in front of a judge, it's because they don’t have any criminal record, they want to do the right thing… The only thing he wants is to study."
Impact on ELLIS Prep and NYC Public Schools
The detention of Dylan, the first known case of a current New York City public school student being detained by ICE during this administration, has deeply affected ELLIS Prep. Principal Norma Vega conveyed the gravity of the situation to her staff, emphasizing the school's commitment to supporting Dylan.
NYC Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos released a statement expressing sorrow for Dylan and his family, reaffirming the school system's dedication to the "safety, dignity, and rights of all of our students," even when incidents occur off school grounds.
A Harrowing Detention and the Fight for Justice
In the five days since his arrest, Dylan, who suffers from severe stomach issues, has been transferred across four states: New Jersey, Texas, Louisiana, and Pennsylvania. This rapid movement has made it incredibly difficult for his legal team from the New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG) to establish contact. Raiza reports that Dylan has not received proper medical care and has been primarily held in cuffs.
