Urgent Release: ICE Errors Threaten Native American’s Freedom

UPDATE: A shocking clerical error has threatened the freedom of Leticia Jacobo, a 24-year-old Native American, who was almost deported due to an erroneously issued ICE detainer. Jacobo, a member of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, was expected to be released from the Polk County Jail in Des Moines, Iowa, on November 11, 2023, but was informed just before her release that federal immigration agents were set to take her into custody.

Jacobo, who was born in Phoenix, Arizona, had been incarcerated for allegedly driving with a suspended license. Her mother, Ericka Burns, visited the jail to confirm pickup details, only to find that her daughter would not be allowed to leave due to the ICE detainer. “How is she going to get deported if she’s a Native American?” her sister, Maria Nunez, recounted her disbelief when told by jail staff.

The detainer, initially meant for another individual, was mistakenly placed on Jacobo’s file. Lt. Mark Chance, a spokesperson for the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, confirmed that the error was a result of human mistake and promised internal discussions to prevent future occurrences.

Jacobo’s family quickly mobilized in a desperate bid to secure her release. With only hours left before her transfer to federal custody, her aunts reached out to tribal leaders for assistance, while Ericka remained at the jail, armed with Jacobo’s birth certificate, to ensure ICE did not take her daughter.

The situation was exacerbated by the Veteran’s Day holiday, which left family members facing communication dead ends. Jacobo was eventually released just before 4:30 a.m. on November 12, after intense advocacy from her family.

This incident highlights the troubling implications of aggressive immigration enforcement, particularly for Native Americans. Jacobo had provided sufficient identification confirming her tribal status, yet her detention raised concerns about racial profiling and the potential for future harm to others in similar situations.

Nunez expressed skepticism about the explanation given for the error, questioning whether discrimination played a role. “They have a rap sheet on her — why would they make a mistake with someone that’s constantly coming in?” she asked, emphasizing the need for accountability.

The ICE field office for the Midwest did not respond to inquiries regarding their verification processes for detainers, nor how they ensure that Native Americans are protected from wrongful detentions.

As Jacobo reflects on her ordeal, she and her family are left with lingering concerns about the implications of such errors. “I just hope it doesn’t ever happen to someone else,” Nunez stated, underscoring the urgency for systemic reforms in immigration enforcement practices.

This incident is a stark reminder of the complexities surrounding immigration laws and the need for vigilance in protecting the rights of all individuals, especially those from marginalized communities. Stay tuned for developments as this story unfolds.