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Detained immigrant's untreated throat tumor grew to size of lemon, lawyer says

Sep 15, 2026·Location: California City, CA

Detained immigrant's untreated throat tumor grew to size of lemon, lawyer says
Photo via Instagram

Rodrigo, a lawful permanent resident living with advanced throat cancer and other serious medical conditions, endured what his attorneys describe as substantial medical neglect during nearly a year in ICE custody at the California City Detention Facility. He suffered two strokes while detained, and his throat tumor grew to the size of a lemon without proper treatment. Senior Staff Attorney Victoria Petty filed a habeas petition on his behalf and secured his release, after which Rodrigo began speaking publicly about the medical neglect and dangerous conditions he experienced in ICE custody.

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