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Immigration Detention of Man Living in U.S. Since 2019 Ruled Unconstitutional

Mar 29, 2026 · Karnes City, Texas

Merin Bonerges Mercado-Mejia, who entered the United States in April 2019 and had been living continuously in the country, was taken into immigration custody on March 29, 2026. He had been authorized to work in the U.S., possessed a valid Social Security number and work permit, and owned a landscaping and roofing company. The federal court ordered his immediate release, finding his detention without a bond hearing violated his constitutional due process rights.

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