Judge Dismisses Deportation Case for Mexican Father of Three U.S. Marines
An immigration judge has dismissed the deportation case against Narciso Barranco, a Mexican father of three U.S. Marines. This ruling enables him to pursue legal permanent residency in the United States. Barranco was detained last year while working in Southern California.
Details of the Case
In June, Barranco was landscaping outside an IHOP restaurant in Santa Ana, California, when federal immigration agents approached him. The incident escalated when Barranco was pinned to the ground and handcuffed. At 49 years old, Barranco has lived in the U.S. for three decades.
After his arrest, he was transferred to a detention center and placed in deportation proceedings. In mid-July, he was released on a $3,000 bond and monitored with an ankle tracker.
Government Actions
The Department of Homeland Security defended the actions of the arresting agents, alleging Barranco raised his weed trimmer threateningly. This violent arrest occurred during a larger immigration enforcement operation initiated by the Trump administration in the Los Angeles area, which incited public protests.
Judge’s Ruling
On January 28, Judge Kristin S. Piepmeier signed the order terminating Barranco’s deportation case. Evidence presented indicated that he is the father of three American service members, making him eligible for lawful status.
- Date of Ruling: January 28
- Judge: Kristin S. Piepmeier
- Father of: Three U.S. Marines
Legal Pathway to Residency
Following the ruling, Barranco’s ankle monitor was removed, and his regular check-ins were discontinued. His attorney, Lisa Ramirez, emphasized that Barranco deserved better treatment, highlighting his role as a father to U.S. citizen Marines and his clean criminal record.
Ramirez is assisting Barranco in applying for Parole in Place, which protects undocumented parents of U.S. military members from deportation. Once approved, he will obtain a work permit.
Future Concerns
Despite this victory, Barranco expressed ongoing anxiety regarding his residency status. He mentioned that he limits his outings primarily to attending Sunday Mass. “I am happy for this victory. But I am still afraid that I could be grabbed,” Barranco said in a recent interview.
