Undocumented immigrant taking sanctuary in church pleads to stay in Seattle
Jose Robles, a father of three, has taken shelter in Gethsemane Lutheran Church in downtown Seattle for more than a year to avoid deportation to Mexico.
On Thursday, supporters came together on his behalf to help keep him in the United States with his family.
“We are gathered here today not because of Jose Robles, but in support of Jose Robles,” said Karen Guzmxn, of Colectiva Legal del Peublo, which is helping him with his immigration case.
Robles still faces deportation, and fears being separated from his family. He entered sanctuary instead of boarding a flight to Mexico, and has not left the church since. His case began with traffic violations.
An ICE policy on ‘sensitive locations’ allows him to stay there. The guidance directs agents not conduct enforcement actions at health care facilities, places of worship, funerals and weddings and public demonstrations unless there are extenuating circumstances.
Robles’ legal team believes he qualifies for a U-visa, which is intended for victims of violent crimes that cooperate with police. Robles was assaulted during a robbery, but Lakewood Police would not certify his application.
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/undocumented-immigrant-taking-sanctuary-in-church-pleads-to-stay-in-seattle/ar-AAEhF7h