Conway man known as 'unofficial mayor' detained by ICE in possible mistaken identity
Sep 10, 2026·Location: Conway, WA

Juan Martinez, a longtime Conway resident described by neighbors as the town's 'unofficial mayor,' was detained by ICE agents. His attorney believes agents may have been searching for the previous registered owner of a car Martinez had purchased, raising the possibility of mistaken identity. Residents say Martinez paid taxes, kept his immigration papers in order, and spent years helping neighbors, and the community is now organizing to advocate for his release.
Sources
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