Here are some recent U.S. immigration news, an essential source to keep you up to date with changes and opportunities that may affect your life.
By reading these summaries, you will gain quick insights into critical issues, allowing you to make more informed decisions and stay on top of what is happening in the immigrant community.
Sharing knowledge is key to strengthening our communities. If you find this information useful, I encourage you to share it with your family and friends.
Also, if you are not already subscribed to our email distribution list, we invite you to do so to receive regular updates on immigration issues. The subscription form can be found at the end of this article. Your privacy is important and we will not sell or disclose your information to third parties.
Thank you for your support!
IMMIGRATION NEWS IN THE UNITED STATES
Inspirational speech by a Colombian NASA engineer
Univision News - February 8, 2024
Diana Trujillo, Colombian aerospace engineer and NASA flight director, has captured the attention and admiration of the audience with her inspiring speech at the Johnson Space Center. Trujillo, who will oversee the team in charge of the next mission to the Moon, delivered remarks in Spanish and presented the 'Somos Flight' badge, which incorporates the colors of the Colombian flag. This moment highlights not only his remarkable career and contributions to science and space exploration, but also his pride in his roots and the inspiration he represents to Latinos around the world.
The Afro-Latino teacher who learned Spanish organically and teaches it like this
Telemundo News - February 8, 2024
During Black Heritage Month, Telemundo News highlights the story of Kristen Smith, an Afro-Latino linguistics teacher of Honduran descent who resides in Los Angeles. Smith, who grew up between two cultures, found challenges in her identity and learning Spanish. Through her personal experience, she is now dedicated to facilitating the learning of Spanish for others, employing an organic method that reflects her own linguistic and cultural journey. Her story is an inspiring testament to the richness of cultural and linguistic diversity, and how education can be a bridge between different worlds.
ERO San Francisco Arrests 26 Non-Citizens with Pending Charges or Murder Convictions
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - February 8, 2024
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) San Francisco Office of Removal and Enforcement Operations (ERO) arrested 26 unlawfully present noncitizens with pending charges or convictions for murder, manslaughter and assault against children during a nationwide enforcement effort conducted Jan. 16-28. Those arrested include a 29-year-old citizen of Honduras and a 32-year-old citizen of Mexico, both convicted of lewd or lascivious acts against a 14-year-old minor in Santa Clara County, and a 26-year-old citizen of Mexico wanted in Mexico for murder and attempted murder. ICE focuses on apprehending noncitizens who have committed crimes and others who have violated the nation's immigration laws, prioritizing those who pose a threat to national security, public safety or border security.
ERO Salt Lake City Arrests 6 During Enforcement Action in Tourist Village
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - February 8, 2024
The Salt Lake City Office of Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO), which operates in Utah, Nevada, Montana and Las Vegas, arrested six fugitives in Moab, Utah, on February 7 during an enforcement operation. These arrests are part of the agency's ongoing efforts to protect the public by targeting fugitive criminals in the interior of the United States. Among those arrested are a 26-year-old citizen of Mexico convicted of domestic violence and with pending charges for DUI, drug possession, property damage, aggravated assault and drug paraphernalia; a 31-year-old citizen of Mexico convicted of four separate DUIs; and a 45-year-old citizen of Mexico with a pending case for the kidnapping of a mental health patient. These efforts align with ICE's focus on apprehending non-citizens who have committed crimes and violated the nation's immigration laws.
Francisco B. Burrola Appointed Special Agent in Charge of HSI Arizona
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - February 8, 2024
Francisco "Frank" B. Burrola, with more than 30 years of federal law enforcement experience and 25 years on the southwest border, was recently selected as the Special Agent in Charge (SAC) for Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Arizona. Burrola, 51, a Tucson native, oversees HSI Arizona's area of responsibility, which includes 15 counties, more than 113,000 square miles and more than 350 miles of shared border with the Republic of Mexico, making it one of the largest HSI offices in the country. Prior to his current assignment, Burrola was the HSI SAC in El Paso for two years, where he elevated the office to record criminal statistics and notable casework. He was also appointed federal commissioner of the Non-Investigable Act Commission for Missing or Murdered Indian Persons, formed to improve intergovernmental coordination and establish best practices for state, tribal and federal law enforcement.
Mexican Citizen Sentenced for Trafficking Cocaine from Mexico to the U.S.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - February 8, 2024
Ana Cristina Alarcón Ríos, a 24-year-old Mexican citizen, was sentenced to 41 months in prison for cocaine trafficking in federal court in Pecos, Texas. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) investigated the case with the assistance of the Brewster County Sheriff's Department. During a traffic stop for speeding on Highway 90 in Alpine, a canine search of Alarcon Rios' vehicle revealed 10 packages containing 11.1 kilograms of cocaine destined for Denver. Alarcon Rios pleaded guilty on August 25, 2023 to possession with intent to distribute cocaine. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Scott Greenbaum and Dustin Farahnak.
ERO Salt Lake City Deports Chilean Fugitive Wanted for Negligent Bodily Injury
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - February 8, 2024
Salt Lake City's Enforcement and Removal Operations Office (ERO) deported a fugitive alien illegally present on February 7 who was wanted by authorities in his home country of Chile for running over a woman in a crosswalk. Jorge Henry Clarke Figueroa, 45, departed Salt Lake City International Airport and arrived at Comodoro Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport in Santiago, Chile, where he was turned over to the Chilean Investigative Police. Clarke legally entered the United States through a port of entry in Miami, Florida, on December 20, 2020, and overstayed his visa. Records indicated that Clarke was living in Utah; officers located him and made his arrest during a fugitive search operation on Jan. 16 and issued a warrant of removal under the visa waiver program.
U.S. Deported More Than 530,000 Immigrants in Almost 10 Months
El Tiempo Latino - February 8, 2024
The United States has deported 530,000 immigrants who entered the country illegally in nearly 10 months, marking a record since the lifting of the public health emergency at the border on May 12, 2023, according to Blas Núñez-Neto, undersecretary for border policy and immigration at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Most crossed the southwest border, including more than 88,000 family members. Following the lifting of a health rule that blocked nearly all migrants without required documentation, Joe Biden's administration introduced "legal pathways" that require migrants to request appointments through a mobile app or complete paperwork in the countries through which they pass. Those who attempt to enter by circumventing these pathways can be removed through expedited repatriations. Migration becomes a hot topic for the November 2024 presidential election, especially for Biden, who is accused by Republicans of allowing in a record number of migrants.
"We're constantly busy": border patrol keeps watch for "coyotes" and drugs
CNN in English - February 8, 2024
CNN's David Culver offers a unique perspective on U.S. border security in the Pacific Ocean, highlighting the growing trend of migrant and drug smuggling. This report illuminates the ongoing challenges faced by the Border Patrol in its effort to control illegal activities in one of the least visible but equally critical routes to national security. Intensive surveillance in these waters underscores the complexity of border management and the need for resources and adaptive strategies to combat smuggling and illegal immigration.
What are Biden's options on the border after Senate plan fails? We explain
Univision - February 8, 2024
The failure of talks between White House officials and Democratic and Republican senators has complicated the situation for the Biden administration, especially in the midst of his re-election campaign. Following the withdrawal of Republican support for a plan that allocated more than $20.3 billion for the border, the administration is looking for alternatives to handle the immigration crisis that has overwhelmed response capacity over the past three years. Options center on using the president's executive power, although this could face lawsuits in court, similar to the challenges Donald Trump faced with his immigration policies. The White House is considering executive action to deter the arrival of foreigners seeking asylum, in response to the failure of bipartisan negotiations in the Senate. Republicans suggest that Biden can take action without additional legislation, such as continuing construction of the border wall or reinstating previous policies to control undocumented crossing.
We explain the consequences of the failure of the bipartisan agreement on immigration in the Senate.
Univision News - February 8, 2024
Wilfredo Allen, an immigration attorney, explains the consequences of the Senate's blockage of the immigration bill presented by a bipartisan committee. He highlights increased congestion in immigration courts and fears at the border as major concerns. This failure reflects the challenges in finding consensus solutions to immigration issues in the United States.
U.S.: Border authorities speak out after failure of immigration deal
Voice of America - February 8, 2024
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security remains hopeful of reaching a border agreement, even though pro-immigrant organizations consider the project a failure. Paula Diaz offers a detailed report on the situation, reflecting the complexity and divisions surrounding U.S. immigration policy. This scenario underscores the ongoing search for solutions to the border and immigration challenges facing the country.
Border Patrol processes numerous migrants in El Paso from Tucson
Voice of America - February 8, 2024
Due to the decrease in the flow of migrants in the sector, the Migrant Processing Center in El Paso, Texas, is receiving a large number of migrants coming from Tucson, Arizona. Voice of America correspondent Cesar Contreras reports from the scene, offering an up-close view of the Border Patrol's process of receiving and handling migrants. This movement reflects the dynamic changes in migratory routes and the logistical challenges faced by border authorities.
Greg Abbott announces more barbed wire to be installed on the border
Telemundo News - February 8, 2024
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has announced during a visit to Shelby Park in Eagle Pass that border security measures will be intensified, including the installation of more barbed wire. This action is part of his ongoing efforts to prevent migrant crossings. In addition, Abbott has warned that there will be an increased National Guard presence in the area. This announcement reflects the state of Texas' firm stance on border security and underscores the political and social tensions surrounding immigration and border control in the United States.
AMLO warns U.S. politicians that "Mexico is nobody's piñata" after Senate rejection of immigration plan
La Opinión - February 8, 2024
Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO) criticized the political use of migration by the United States following the rejection of an immigration plan in the U.S. Senate. This plan, which did not achieve the necessary votes, proposed closing the border and expelling more migrants to Mexico. AMLO stressed that Mexico will not be used for electoral benefits in the U.S. and reiterated his proposal to regularize Mexican migrants in the U.S. who have been in the country for more than five years, in addition to a development plan for Latin America. He also suggested a ceremony with US politicians who commit to regularize the immigration status of Mexicans, emphasizing the contribution of migrants to US development and the injustice of not recognizing their rights.
NYPD Seeks Two More Migrants in Times Square Attack on Officers
La Opinión - February 8, 2024
The NYPD is on the lookout for two more migrants involved in the assault of two police officers in Times Square, caught on camera. Surveillance footage revealed two individuals at the scene of the incident, charged with assault. One of them, dressed in a red hoodie, is accused of kicking an officer at least three times. The other, wearing a black padded jacket, was also seen kicking an officer. It is estimated that up to 14 migrants were involved in the January 27 attack. Following the incident, several suspects were arrested and charged with a variety of charges, including assaulting a police officer. The first five arrested are originally from Venezuela and arrived in the city late last year. All but one, who remains in custody on bail, were released without bail after being arraigned in Manhattan Criminal Court.
New York police officers involved in beating of two police officers formally charged
Univision News - February 8, 2024
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg has announced the indictment of seven individuals involved in the assault of two NYPD officers, an incident that took place on January 27 in Times Square. So far, five of the suspects have been arrested, while the remaining two remain at large. This case has captured public and media attention, highlighting the tensions between the community and law enforcement, as well as the ongoing challenge facing public safety in densely populated urban areas.
New York City Police Attackers Charged with Attacking Police Officers
Telemundo News - February 8, 2024
Seven people, including migrants, have been formally charged for their involvement in the assault of two police officers in New York's Times Square. The incident, which has yet to identify additional suspects, highlights tensions in the city and highlights the challenges facing law enforcement. The news has generated widespread debate about public safety and the relationship between the community and the police in one of the city's most iconic spots.
"Biden, we've been waiting for years": undocumented immigrants in Chicago remain in the shadows
La Raza - February 8, 2024
Dozens of undocumented immigrants gathered at a vigil in Pilsen, Chicago, to ask President Joe Biden for work permits for the more than 11 million undocumented immigrants living in the United States. With candles and signs, they expressed their weariness with the more than two-decade long wait for immigration reform and work permits. The community, including people who have paid taxes for years and contribute to the economy, called on Biden to use his administrative power to extend work permits, similar to what was done with recent asylum seekers. Activists and community leaders stressed the importance of granting work permits to dignify and provide opportunities for immigrants, emphasizing their contribution to society. The vigil took place in a context where a federal Senate bill, which did not include measures for long-term immigrants, failed to gain legislative support.
Evictions suspended in Chicago shelters
Voice of America - February 8, 2024
In response to a letter signed by Chicago aldermen requesting the temporary cancellation of immigrant evictions in shelters, the city's mayor has announced an extension of the stay of these individuals. Voice of America correspondent Enrique Garcia Fuentes reports from Chicago on this measure, which represents temporary relief for affected immigrants. This development underscores the importance of local policies in managing the immigration crisis and supporting vulnerable populations.
Biden confuses Egypt's president with Mexico's while assuring that his memory "is fine.
Univision News - February 8, 2024
U.S. President Joe Biden has generated headlines after a recent mix-up during a public statement, where he conflated Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi with the Mexican leader. This incident occurred shortly after Biden defiantly responded to a special prosecutor's report describing him as a "well-meaning old man with a bad memory." This event has stoked debate about Biden's ability to serve in office, amid growing concerns about his age and cognitive status.
"How dare he: Biden reacts to report on classified papers
Telemundo News - February 8, 2024
President Joe Biden expressed outrage at the findings of a report on the handling of classified documents found on his property. The report states that Biden has difficulty recalling specific events and facts. This reaction from the president underscores the tension surrounding the investigations into the classified documents and raises questions about the political and personal implications of these revelations for Biden and his administration.
Report suggests Biden's memory is limited
Telemundo News - February 8, 2024
Special prosecutor Robert Hur has issued a report on President Joe Biden, noting his cooperation in the investigations and clarifying that he was not charged because he did not deliberately withhold information. However, the report also notes that Biden's memory was "significantly limited" during interviews conducted in 2023. This detail has sparked discussions about Biden's cognitive ability and its impact on his performance as president, especially in the context of the upcoming 2024 election.
Biden's forgetfulness and absent-mindedness were key to not being indicted over classified papers
Telemundo News - February 8, 2024
During questioning, President Biden failed to remember when his son died or the exact dates of his vice presidency, the prosecutor reports. These forgetfulness and absent-mindedness played a crucial role in the decision not to charge him with withholding classified material. It is argued that Biden's mental state could pose a problem before a jury, suggesting that his ability to recall specific events was a determining factor in the case.
Supreme Court appears to favor Trump in Colorado case
CNN in English - February 8, 2024
At a recent U.S. Supreme Court hearing, Donald Trump's eligibility to appear on the ballot in the state of Colorado was discussed. Manuel Retureta's analysis, featured in the segment, suggests that the Court may be leaning in Trump's favor. This case has captured national attention as it raises fundamental questions about electoral eligibility criteria and could set an important precedent for future elections. The Court's decision will not only affect Trump and Colorado, but could also influence how other states determine candidate eligibility, marking a significant moment in U.S. electoral jurisprudence.
The options before the Supreme Court in the unpublished case on Trump's electoral eligibility.
Telemundo News - February 8, 2024
Joseph Malouf, legal analyst for Telemundo News, discusses the two possible rulings the Supreme Court could issue in the unprecedented case on Donald Trump's electoral eligibility. Malouf notes that one of these options could have disastrous consequences, although he does not specify what these options are or the possible repercussions. This case highlights the tension and importance of judicial decisions in the current U.S. political context.
Supreme Court skeptical about whether to bar Trump from the election
Voice of America - February 8, 2024
The U.S. Supreme Court has heard arguments on former President Donald Trump's eligibility to run for president again, specifically in relation to his involvement in the assault on the Capitol. The justices were skeptical that Trump could be barred from the ballot in Colorado, indicating the complexity and controversy surrounding this legal and political issue. This case underscores the tensions in the U.S. judicial and political system surrounding Trump and his political future.
"There will be conflicts" if Trump is vetoed from ballots, judge says
Telemundo News - February 8, 2024
During a Supreme Court session to hear arguments on Donald Trump's ballot eligibility, Judge Brett Kavanaugh warned that upholding Colorado's decision to disqualify different candidates could lead to conflicts between states. This statement underscores the complexity and potential repercussions of a court decision on Trump's participation in future elections, highlighting the political tensions and divisions in the country.
OTHER NEWS
CBP Agriculture Specialists Prepare for Valentine's Day Imports of Cut Flowers
U.S. Customs and Border Protection - February 9, 2024
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agriculture specialists are inspecting cut flower shipments ahead of Valentine's Day to protect the nation from agricultural and floral pest risks. Valentine's Day is the busiest time of year for cut flower imports, with more than 352 million mixed bouquets, 76 million roses and 75 million chrysanthemums inspected last year. These numbers are expected to increase in 2024. Although only a small number of damaging pests are among the millions of stems inspected, a single dangerous pest could cause millions of dollars in damage to the nation's crops. As of Feb. 7, agricultural specialists have inspected more than 1 billion cut flowers, intercepting 1,581 insects and pests, with 877 that could have introduced diseases into the United States, such as chrysanthemum white rust. CBP recommends consumers who wish to import or travel with flowers, plant materials and other agricultural items visit the CBP website for more information.
Street novelist immortalizes New Yorkers' lives in 60-second stories
Voice of America - February 8, 2024
Dan Hurley, a novelist with nearly four decades of experience, has devoted much of his life to writing 60-second stories about people he encounters on the streets of New York. What began as a hobby has become an inescapable passion for him. Voice of America's Nathaly Salas Guaithero offers an intimate look at this unique project that captures the essence and diversity of New Yorkers, demonstrating how brief encounters can be transformed into memorable and meaningful stories.
What is it like to live in 40 square meters in New York?
Voice of America - February 8, 2024
Living in New York presents numerous challenges, including the high cost of living, overwhelming traffic and the search for affordable and comfortable housing. Voice of America's Ronen Suarc explores what it's like to live in a space of just 40 square meters in this metropolis. This feature highlights the everyday realities of New Yorkers adapting to small spaces, demonstrating the creativity and resilience needed to make the city one of the most dynamic and vibrant places in the world.
The resurgence of independent bookstores in the U.S.
Voice of America - February 8, 2024
The U.S. publishing industry has seen a remarkable transformation over the past three decades, particularly with the impact of Amazon on independent bookstores. Recently, however, we have seen a renaissance of physical books and, with it, the resurgence of independent bookstores in the country. This phenomenon reflects a shift in consumer preferences, who increasingly value the unique experience offered by these stores, as well as the support for local businesses and the literary community.
Spanish singer Martirio, from copla to jazz
CNN in English - February 8, 2024
In a special edition of "Tres Minutos con Wendy Guerra", the outstanding Spanish singer Martirio shares her musical trajectory, from her beginnings to the present, where she has explored and fused genres as diverse as copla and jazz. Accompanied by the production of her son Raúl Rodríguez, Martirio has achieved a distinctive sound that transcends cultural and musical boundaries. Her career is a testament to the constant evolution in the world of music and how traditions can be reinvented and dialogue with new genres to create something unique and contemporary.
Bolivians cling to faith and miniatures in hopes of fulfilling their dreams
Voice of America - February 8, 2024
In Bolivia, the Alasita festival is an annual tradition where wishes and dreams are bought in miniature. According to popular belief, these objects, purchased with faith, will become reality. Voice of America correspondent Fabiola Chambi immerses us in this unique celebration, highlighting how faith and hope play a central role in Bolivian culture. Alasita is an event that reflects the optimism and creativity of Bolivians in their search for happiness and prosperity.
The photo of a bear huddled in an iceberg touched the world... and won an award
Telemundo News - February 8, 2024
British photographer Nima Sarikhani has been awarded the title of 'Photographer of the Year 2023' at the People's Choice Awards, thanks to a touching image he captured of a polar bear huddled on an iceberg in Norway. This photograph, which has touched people around the world, not only stands out for its aesthetic beauty, but also for the powerful message it conveys about the effects of climate change on the natural habitat of these majestic creatures. The image has become a symbol of the urgent need for environmental action and conservation.
Sanctuary seeks to prevent donkey extinction in Mexico
Telemundo News - February 8, 2024
Mexico's National Institute of Geography and Statistics has reported that, from the 1990s to date, the donkey population in the country has declined drastically, from 1.5 million to only 250,000. In response to this alarming decline, a sanctuary dedicated to the preservation and protection of donkeys has been established to prevent their extinction. This effort reflects the growing concern for the conservation of endangered species and the importance of taking concrete measures to protect Mexico's biodiversity and natural heritage.
Stress is key to drug use among young people
Telemundo News - February 8, 2024
A recent study that interviewed more than 9,500 young people aged 13-18 years revealed that 73% of them use different substances to calm down and relax, identifying stress as their main motivation. This finding underscores the importance of addressing the underlying causes of stress among youth and the need to develop effective strategies for its management. The research highlights the direct relationship between stress and drug use, pointing to the urgency of preventive and supportive interventions that address both the mental health and physical well-being of adolescents.
70 social housing agency employees arrested in New York for allegedly demanding bribes
Univision News - February 8, 2024
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York has charged 70 current and former supervisors of the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) for allegedly receiving kickbacks from contractors. The defendants allegedly demanded more than $2 million in payments to award work contracts, revealing a deep corruption problem within the agency charged with providing social housing. This case underscores the challenges in the management and oversight of public institutions.
Massive trial begins against alleged gang members in El Salvador
Telemundo News - February 8, 2024
A massive trial has begun in El Salvador against nearly 500 alleged leaders of the Mara Salvatrucha, accused of planning and committing more than 37,000 crimes between 2012 and 2022. This unprecedented judicial process highlights the country's efforts to combat gang-related violence and criminality, which have had a profound impact on Salvadoran society. The magnitude of this trial reflects the seriousness of the challenges El Salvador faces in its fight against criminal organizations and its commitment to restoring security and order.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
I have used an artificial intelligence tool, programmed with specific instructions, to summarize each article or video. These summaries provide a quick overview of the most important topics.
Although these summaries are intended to be accurate, it is essential to read the articles or watch the full videos for a complete understanding. I share this information to help you stay informed, but the final interpretation of each article or video is up to you.
As the distributor of this information, I assume no responsibility for the details or interpretations of the summaries. My goal is to provide you with quick and efficient access to the most important immigration news, helping you stay informed and connected to your community.
IMMIGRATION CONSULTATION
News and information found on the Internet is of a general nature and should not be construed as specific legal advice for any individual, case or situation.
Anyone who has questions about U.S. immigration law, including whether or not a particular immigration law applies to his or her situation, should immediately seek advice from a licensed and experienced U.S. immigration attorney to determine his or her immigration legal options.
Avoid being victim of immigration fraud and never consult with notaries, immigration consultants, paper-fillers, multi-services and others. unlicensed persons to obtain immigration legal advice.
Nelson A. Castillo is an immigration attorney with more than 20 years of legal experience and author of La Tarjeta Verde: Cómo Obtener la Residencia Permanente en los Estados Unidos (Green Card: How to Obtain Permanent Residence in the United States). He is a former President of the Hispanic National Bar Association and the Westlake South Neighborhood Council of Los Angeles.
For information on how to schedule an immigration consultation with Dr. Castillo, click here. click here.
English 
Español