Story perspectives
Citizenship Victory: Court Halts Deportation of René López
3/7/2026
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Story summary
- In February 2026, 4th Circuit Court ruled that René López is a U.S. citizen, halting deportation.
- López spent three years in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody over a citizenship dispute tied to his naturalized mother.
- The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recognized López as a citizen in 2009, but later changed its stance.
- He now aims to rebuild his life and business, citing detention's emotional toll and family support.
