HUMSI — Human Security Initiative

Human Impact Project

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

DACA recipient deported to Honduras, returned to Texas, detained again, reunites with newborn son

May 8, 2026 · Edinburg, TX, Honduras

DACA recipient deported to Honduras, returned to Texas, detained again, reunites with newborn son

José Contreras Díaz, a 30-year-old DACA recipient who grew up in Edinburg, Texas, was arrested at an immigration appointment on January 6, 2026, and deported to Honduras within days despite holding valid DACA status. While in Honduras, he missed the birth of his son, Mateo. After his attorney filed a legal challenge arguing the deportation was unlawful, ICE flew him back to Texas on April 29. Upon re-entry, he was immediately detained at Port Isabel Detention Center for eight days. Released on May 7-8, Contreras is now home with his wife and newborn son. He stated: "I would not wish what I've been through on anyone. They detained me, sent me to a country I barely remember, and then gave me hope — the hope that I could come home, see my family, and hold my son again. Then that hope was taken away." Contreras remains under deportation threat and must report periodically to ICE. The Department of Homeland Security has stated it still intends to deport him, arguing that DACA does not confer legal status.

Timeline

May 8, 2026Contreras confirmed released and now facing removal proceedings while under periodic ICE reporting requirements
May 7, 2026Contreras released from Port Isabel after eight days in detention; reunites with wife and newborn son Mateo
Apr 29, 2026After legal challenge filed by attorney, ICE flies Contreras back to Texas; he is immediately detained at Port Isabel Detention Center upon re-entry
Jan 6, 2026José Contreras Díaz arrested at immigration appointment despite holding valid DACA status
Jan 6, 2026Contreras deported to Honduras within days of arrest

Sources

More incidents in Texas