Success! University of Arkansas Student Out of Detention

Last week, I wrote about Jonathan Chavez, an honors student at the University of Arkansas, who was detained after ICE officials nabbed him from a Greyhound bus and hauled him to a private detention facility in Florida.

After numerous calls, letters, and more than 1000 emails sent on behalf of his release by Change.org members, DREAM Act-eligible student Jonathan Chavez is finally out of detention and on his way home to Arkansas.

“I am beyond blessed to have you all as my friends. Thank you for all the support and prayers. I am with my family enjoying some amazing Peruvian food. I am beyond amazed of what Jesus can do,” said an elated Jonathan on the Facebook support group made for him by his well-wishers.

Many people say that our country should enforce all laws. As an aspiring member of the legal profession, I agree with the statement.  The Department of Homeland Security has prosecutorial discretion, which is also the law of the land. Given the support that Jonathan has received from all corners of the country and the fact that he is an aspiring, contributing member of society, ICE should exercise discretion and grant Jonathan a stay of removal.

Jonathan is not completely out of the woods yet. He is out of detention, but still in removal proceedings. Reportedly, his hearing will be moved to the state of Arkansas so he will be able to return and continue classes at the University of Arkansas.

Photo Credit: Praying for Jonathan Chavez Facebook Group