SAN DIEGO (AP) — The recent detention of the parents of a U.S. Marine has drawn attention to the intersection of immigration enforcement and military family life. Steve Rios, a Marine from Oceanside, California, reported that his parents, Esteban Rios and Luisa Rodriguez, were taken into custody while visiting family at Camp Pendleton.
The couple, who immigrated from Mexico and have been living in the U.S. for over thirty years with pending green card applications, were initially stopped by immigration agents during their visit. After being released with ankle monitors, their subsequent check-in led to their detention by federal immigration officials.
Esteban, wearing a hat and shirt declaring his pride as a U.S. Marine parent, was deported shortly afterward. He said, ‘Yeah, this is my lucky shirt, so we’ll be fine,’” Steve recalled his father's optimistic remarks while facing the situation.
Active-duty military personnel and their families have long relied on the notion that enlistment could provide some stability in their immigration status. However, under current administrations, many military families find that immigration policies have tightened, complicating previously held assurances.
The Marine Corps has clarified that recruiters are not authorized to suggest that military service can guarantee immigration relief. According to Tricia McLaughlin from the Department of Homeland Security, individuals who violate laws will face consequences.
This incident sheds light on ongoing immigration enforcement practices that have, at times, ensnared the families of service members. Similar cases have occurred where immigration authorities have detained relatives of military personnel, reflecting the broader implications of current immigration policies.
