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Theater manager detained after overstaying tourist visa, granted bond

Jul 30, 2025 · Kirkland, WA, Brazil

Theater manager detained after overstaying tourist visa, granted bond

Fernando Alves Rocha, a 45-year-old Brazilian theater manager at Juanita High School in Kirkland, was arrested by ICE on July 18 after overstaying a tourist visa he entered in August 2018. He filed an asylum application in February 2019, one day before his visa expired, and has maintained a valid work permit since then. Director Rose Cano described him as well-loved at the high school and a good mentor to students. According to witness accounts, ICE agents pulled Rocha from his vehicle and threw him to the ground during the arrest. ICE alleged he is wanted by Brazilian law enforcement for theft, but his attorney stated they were not shown evidence of any crimes. The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees Local 15 raised $36,405 through GoFundMe to support his legal fight and help secure his $10,000 bond. On July 29, Immigration Court Judge Tammy Fitting granted the bond, citing his strong community ties, pending asylum claim, and lack of danger to the community or flight risk. Rocha was released from Northwest Detention Center on July 30.

Timeline

Jul 30, 2025Rocha released from Northwest Detention Center after bond was paid
Jul 29, 2025Immigration Court Judge Tammy Fitting granted Rocha a $10,000 bond; IATSE Local 15 union contributed funds toward bond payment
Jul 18, 2025Rocha arrested by ICE at his driveway or while leaving his home in Monroe; agents pulled him from vehicle and threw him to the ground
Feb 2019Rocha filed an asylum application before his tourist visa expired; obtained valid work permit
Aug 2018Rocha entered the United States from Brazil on a tourist visa

Sources

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