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DACA recipient deported despite valid status, re-detained upon return, released after legal challenge

May 12, 2026 · Rio Grande Valley, TX, Honduras

DACA recipient deported despite valid status, re-detained upon return, released after legal challenge

José Contreras Díaz, a 30-year-old DACA recipient from Edinburg, Texas, was arrested by ICE agents during a routine check-in appointment in January 2026 and deported to Honduras despite his valid protected status. After his attorney challenged the deportation citing federal court precedent, immigration authorities granted him parole to return to the United States. Upon arrival at Harlingen Airport on April 29, 2026, ICE agents detained him at Port Isabel Detention Center rather than releasing him as expected. He was released on May 7-8, 2026, after more than three months of separation from his family, including missing the birth of his son. He continues to face removal proceedings.

Timeline

May 7, 2026Released from Port Isabel Detention Center following habeas corpus petition
Apr 29, 2026Re-entered United States at Harlingen Airport and immediately re-detained by ICE at Port Isabel Detention Center
Mar 1, 2026Attorney challenged deportation citing federal court precedent; immigration authorities granted parole for return to United States
Jan 1, 2026José Contreras Díaz arrested by ICE agents during routine check-in appointment
Jan 1, 2026Deported to Honduras despite valid DACA status

Sources

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