A couple from Laguna Niguel, California, who had lived in the United States for 35 years, was deported to Colombia on Tuesday. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement confirmed that Gladys Gonzalez, 55, and Nelson Gonzalez, 59, arrived in Colombia after spending weeks in custody. The couple had been detained since February 21 and were held at detention centers in San Bernardino County, Arizona, and Louisiana.
The Gonzalez family, including their three daughters, Gabby, Jessica, and Stephanie, who are all U.S. citizens, expressed relief that their parents are no longer in detention. However, they are devastated by the deportation. Stephanie Gonzalez told KTLA, “They were put into handcuffs by their wrists and ankles and treated as criminals.” The couple, who have no criminal record, had tried numerous legal avenues to remain in the country but ultimately exhausted all options.
The family acknowledged that they are among many affected by increased deportations under President Donald Trump’s administration. Despite the trauma, the couple has connected with family in Colombia to help them start anew. Gabby, Stephanie, and Jessica plan to visit their parents in the coming weeks.
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