David Reyes Mejia was detained by federal immigration officials in Louisville after attending a scheduled immigration appointment, LEX 18 News – Lexington, KY (WLEX) reported.
The detention occurred during an appointment meant to address his immigration status, but a previously existing deportation order surfaced during the proceedings. For his family, the sudden shift from a legal appointment to federal custody has left them facing an uncertain future.
“They told me that ICE was going to come and get him because he had the deportation order,” Reyes Mejia’s wife, Rhonda Whaley, told LEX 18 News – Lexington, KY (WLEX).
While the detention was unexpected in its timing, Whaley said that the existence of the prior order was not a secret. She said that Reyes Mejia had been transparent throughout their legal process regarding his history.
“We kind of anticipated something because he was honest with everything, following the paperwork. Like he knew that he had the deportation order, but he was deported,” Whaley told LEX 18 News – Lexington, KY (WLEX).
Friends of Reyes Mejia described him as a social and humorous individual who was well-known within his community. “He can tell a good story. He makes everyone laugh,” Whaley said.
The intersection of a new immigration application and an old removal order creates complex legal challenges. Immigration attorney Dallin Lykins explained that filing new paperwork does not automatically nullify past government actions.
“Just having another immigration application out there pending doesn’t necessarily eradicate or erase a prior removal order,” Lykins said.
However, Lykins said that detention does not always lead to immediate removal. He pointed out that individuals in this position have specific legal avenues available to them to contest their status or seek release.
“It doesn’t necessarily mean deportation is imminent. They have the ability to request a bond hearing and potentially be released on a bond. They also have the ability to defend and file applications while they’re in custody,” Lykins said.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has been contacted regarding the specific circumstances of the detention. After a multi-day inquiry, the agency provided a brief statement to LEX 18 News – Lexington, KY (WLEX) stating, “We will research this and respond as soon as possible.”
As the federal agency continues its research, Reyes Mejia’s social circle has expressed a desire for his return to Lexington. “I love you, man, and I hope you’re doing well. We’re all thinking about you and just really can’t wait to get you back home,” Eric Dickerson said.
The exact timeline for Reyes Mejia’s next legal steps remains unknown, as ICE has not provided further details regarding his specific case or the immediate plans for his custody.
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