Jose Gonzalez Released from Immigration Detention After Community Support

Jose Gonzalez, a 53-year-old native of Mexico and the longtime maitre d' at Bice Ristorante in Palm Beach, was released from immigration detention on December 22, 2022, after nearly a week at the Alligator Alcatraz detention facility. His detention began on December 10 when he and his nephew were pulled over by the Florida Highway Patrol for allegedly having tinted windows. Following the traffic stop, Gonzalez was turned over to immigration officials despite having a pending asylum application and a valid work permit.

Miami New Times

Gonzalez's detention sparked significant community outrage and mobilization. Local residents, including publicist Maribel Alvarez and U.S. Representative Lois Frankel, described him as a cherished member of the Palm Beach community. Frankel characterized Gonzalez as a "brother, uncle, business owner," and criticized the conditions of his detention, labeling them as "unspeakable" and akin to "brutal torture." The community organized a vigil and a petition to advocate for his release, highlighting the emotional toll of his detention on family and friends.

Miami New Times

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) clarified that Gonzalez was initially taken into custody following a routine traffic stop and was found to be illegally present in the U.S. He was subsequently transferred to U.S. Border Patrol custody for removal proceedings. Gonzalez's attorney, Jeffrey Devore, criticized the detention policies of the Trump administration, suggesting they create a hostile environment for individuals like Gonzalez who are otherwise law-abiding. Devore filed a habeas corpus petition in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida to challenge Gonzalez's detention.

Miami New Times

The conditions at the Alligator Alcatraz facility have been described as harsh, with Devore stating that they make a "Motel 6 look good." Critics argue that such facilities are not suitable for humane treatment, and the community's response underscores a broader concern about the treatment of immigrants in detention. Frankel's comments reflect a sentiment that the detention of individuals like Gonzalez does not align with the stated goals of targeting serious offenders.

Miami New Times

While Gonzalez has been released, his nephew has reportedly agreed to return to Mexico. The legal proceedings initiated by Devore may continue to unfold as they seek to ensure Gonzalez's rights are protected and to address the implications of his detention.

Miami New Times

• “He’s just working, minding his own business. He doesn’t really fit within the profile that President Trump said that he was going to go after.” — Jeffrey Devore, Attorney

Miami New Times

• “The conditions aren’t fit for animals. It is brutal torture.” — Maribel Alvarez, Publicist

Miami New Times

• “This isn’t going after the ‘worst of the worst,’ this is terrorizing our neighbors to meet ICE’s detention quota.” — Lois Frankel, U.S. Representative

Miami New Times