HUMSI — Human Security Initiative

Human Impact Project

A living database documenting reported immigration enforcement incidents and their human impact.

High school graduate detained by ICE during routine check-in appointment days after graduation

May 24, 2026 · Chattanooga, TN, Colombia

High school graduate detained by ICE during routine check-in appointment days after graduation

Daniel Romero, 18, a Colombian national and recent graduate of Ooltewah High School in Tennessee, was taken into ICE custody on May 18, 2026, during what his family believed was a routine appointment related to an immigration program. ICE cited missed check-ins and failure to submit required weekly photos as reasons for detention. Romero's family disputed the allegations, claiming the check-in app malfunctioned for four weeks and provided documented evidence of the technical error, but officials did not allow Romero to present this proof before his arrest. Records provided by the family indicated compliance with program requirements. He was held at Etowah County Jail in Alabama before being transferred to a detention center in Louisiana, where no bond, video calls, or visitation were allowed.

Timeline

May 24, 2026Romero transferred from Alabama to detention center in Louisiana; no bond, video calls, or visitation allowed
May 18, 2026Daniel Romero detained by ICE at Chattanooga immigration office during routine check-in appointment; cited for missed check-ins and missing weekly photos
May 18, 2026Romero transferred to Etowah County Jail in Alabama; family claims check-in app malfunctioned for four weeks and provides documented evidence

Sources

More incidents in Tennessee