HOUSTON — In a troubling incident, two men were handcuffed in the back of an ICE vehicle when it collided with Miguel Parra Hernandez, who was fleeing on foot. This event has sparked fear among advocates who are concerned that these men, now potential witnesses, could face deportation.
During a news conference on Wednesday, family members and advocates identified one of the men as Luis Delfín Enríquez, 48. Delfín’s sister, Nidia, expressed concern for her brother, stating he was not a criminal and was on his way to breakfast when ICE apprehended him. “He is a good man,” she said, emphasizing his community ties and lawful pursuit of a green card.
Amidst these developments, advocacy groups are urging community members who witnessed the incident to come forward with any information. “What was done to him is not OK,” Nidia remarked, calling for justice for Parra.
Cesar Espinosa, from the immigrant rights group FIEL Houston, noted that the men in the ICE vehicle witnessed the striking of Parra. He criticized ICE’s tactics, labeling the agency’s behavior as dangerous and reckless, particularly given that it was transporting handcuffed individuals while pursuing a suspect.
District Attorney Sean Teare indicated that evidence suggests the incident may have been intentional, which could lead to serious legal repercussions for the involved officers. He is seeking to interview the witnesses as part of the investigation, which could result in charges of aggravated assault.
The incident raises serious questions about the policies and practices of ICE, particularly amid claims from the agency that the collision was not intentional. A government watchdog report released recently highlighted a lack of clear operational guidance on the use of body cameras by ICE personnel, further complicating the situation.
As the investigation unfolds, advocates are demanding that ICE refrains from deporting potential witnesses and ensures that Parra receives the medical care he needs. Espinosa expressed concern that Parra does not feel safe in the hospital due to the presence of ICE officers monitoring him.
The case continues to draw attention, with community leaders calling for accountability and transparency in the actions of law enforcement agencies involved. As the situation develops, advocates remain hopeful that justice will prevail for both Parra and those who witnessed the incident.
Photo credit: Noticias Telemundo
