Alain Núñez, a Cuban immigrant who arrived in the United States in 2021, has been held in a Texas jail for eight months without a clear explanation from authorities, despite having a work permit and a social security number.
According to his family's statements to Telemundo, Núñez was taken into custody after voluntarily attending an immigration hearing at a judicial center not affiliated with the ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) detention system.
Throughout this process, Núñez had already completed his "credible fear" hearing, a prerequisite for pursuing political asylum, and his case is currently awaiting a decision.
"We don't understand why he is still detained. My wife is pregnant, and this situation has left her devastated. She has needed psychological therapy to cope," Núñez shared with family members.
Núñez's prolonged incarceration has raised concerns among his relatives and migrant rights organizations. Specialists consulted by the source have warned that the uncertainty and extended isolation can lead to severe psychological repercussions.
A psychologist experienced with migrant detainees noted, "These individuals live under constant stress, uncertain of how long they will remain imprisoned or what the future holds. In such situations, the risk of depression or emotional crises is significantly heightened."
Núñez's situation is part of a broader pattern involving numerous Cubans and Latin Americans who are held in local jails or facilities contracted by the federal government while they await responses to their asylum applications, despite posing no threat or having criminal records.
Human rights organizations have consistently urged the U.S. government to review detention conditions and ensure more transparent and expedited processes for those already holding work permits or active asylum applications.
Understanding the Detention of Cuban Immigrants in the U.S.
Why is Alain Núñez still detained despite having a work permit?
The reasons for Núñez's prolonged detention remain unclear, as authorities have not provided a specific explanation, despite his compliance with immigration requirements and possession of a work permit.
What psychological impacts can prolonged detention have on immigrants like Núñez?
Extended detention can cause significant psychological stress, leading to depression or emotional crises due to the uncertainty of their situation and isolation from loved ones.
What actions are human rights organizations recommending?
Human rights groups are calling for the U.S. government to review and improve detention conditions and to expedite legal procedures for individuals with work permits or pending asylum cases.