Jose Barco, 39, is a decorated U.S. Army veteran who deployed twice to Iraq, received a Purple Heart after a 2004 explosion caused traumatic brain injury, and was honorably discharged in 2008. In April 2008, while struggling with untreated TBI symptoms and PTSD, Barco shot into a crowd of teenagers in Colorado Springs, injuring a pregnant 19-year-old; he was sentenced to 52 years and spent 15 years in prison as a model inmate. Released on parole on January 21, 2025, he was immediately detained by ICE. His commanding officer confirmed Barco's 2006 citizenship application was completed and eligible but was lost in processing. On his release from prison, Barco was transferred to immigration detention and ordered deported to Venezuela in February 2025. When deported, Venezuelan authorities refused to accept him, citing doubts about his birth certificate and lack of family ties, and he was returned to U.S. detention. His wife Tia, supporters including his former Army medic, and veteran advocacy organizations are seeking intervention.