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Pennsylvania man released after 258 days in ICE detention, reunites with family

May 8, 2026·Location: Downingtown, PA

Country of origin: Mexico

Pennsylvania man released after 258 days in ICE detention, reunites with family
Photo via nbcphiladelphia.com

Carlos Della Valle, a Mexican national and long-term resident of Chester County, Pennsylvania, was detained by ICE in December 2024 after being arrested at an airport in St. Thomas while on family vacation. He was held across 12 different detention facilities, including centers in Louisiana and Florida, and reported inhumane conditions during his confinement. Despite claiming a judge had declared him not guilty, Della Valle was detained under a 1997 deportation order. His wife Angela, a U.S. citizen, and supporters rallied for his release. He was released in late April 2026 after 258 days in custody and returned to his home in Chester County.

Timeline

May 8, 2026—Della Valle reunited with wife Angela at home in Chester County
Apr 28, 2026—Della Valle released from ICE custody after 258 days in detention
Aug 2025—Della Valle detained outside court appointment under 1997 deportation order
Dec 2024—Carlos Della Valle arrested by ICE at airport in St. Thomas while on family vacation
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