ROGERS, Ark. — Cristina Osornio faced a cascade of challenges when her family was disrupted by the stringent immigration policies of the Trump administration. Already separated from her deported husband, Osornio was further ensnared during a routine traffic stop in Benton County, where local law enforcement cooperated with ICE, leading to her unexpected detention.
Even though Osornio is a legal permanent U.S. resident and mother of six, her life turned upside down after being jailed on an ICE hold for several days. Records indicate Benton County's partnership with ICE has resulted in significant arrests, often originating from minor misdemeanors, highlighting a troubling trend impacting immigrant families across the region.
The alliance between local law enforcement and immigration authorities offers insight into the future of immigrant communities in areas with similar cooperation agreements. Osornio reflects on the fear that has enveloped her community: “Nobody is safe at this point because they are targeting you because of your skin color.”
This partnership has resulted in numerous deportations, sometimes stemming from minor infractions like driving without insurance, as experienced by Osornio, who was stopped while on her way to work. The implications of ICE's actions have left many families shattered, facing emotional and financial struggles while living under a cloud of uncertainty and fear.
Benton County Jail has witnessed over 450 ICE arrests this year alone, with the partnership drawing criticism for leading to the separation of families and increasing anxiety among immigrants from various backgrounds. Local advocates express concerns that the aggressive tactics arise more often from minor infractions, leaving individuals vulnerable to detention based on the color of their skin rather than their character or legal status.
The experience has not only deeply affected Osornio but also her children, who now aspire to reunite with their father, while coping with their new reality void of his presence. As Osornio continues to navigate her way through this grueling ordeal, she shares her story in hopes of shedding light on the fears and struggles faced by many immigrant families in America.
