DETROIT — A significant ruling in immigration law came when a district judge mandated that a Michigan man facing potential deportation should be released from custody or at least granted a bond hearing. This decision presents a noteworthy moment for immigrant rights advocates as it directly addresses the plight of Jose Contreras-Cervantes, a man who is grappling with life-threatening leukemia.
Contreras-Cervantes, 33, holds a grave diagnosis of chronic myeloid leukemia and was informed by medical professionals that he has a mere four to six years left to live. His case, along with that of seven others, is being represented by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Michigan.
The ruling by U.S. District Judge Brandy McMillion signals a potential shift in the approach toward immigrants in detention, specifically in relation to bond hearings. The Trump administration had previously instituted a policy that denied bond hearings to many immigrants who entered the U.S. unlawfully, regardless of their backgrounds. This has faced increasing legal challenges, notably in Washington state.
Judge McMillion criticized the lack of individualized assessments regarding the risk of flight or potential dangers posed by detainees, stating that such blanket policies violate due process as outlined by federal law. She ordered that bond hearings should be conducted within the next seven days and requested a written update on October 27.
Contreras-Cervantes's experience highlights the urgency of his situation. The native of Jalisco, Mexico has lived in the U.S. for about two decades without legal status. After being arrested during a traffic stop in early August, he was transferred between detention facilities, reportedly going 22 days without his necessary medication. He is currently receiving alternative medication at North Lake Processing Center, a privately operated detention facility in Baldwin, Michigan.
As the immigration ruling progresses, the outcome will undoubtedly resonate with many immigrants facing similar challenges, particularly those with urgent health conditions.
