Overview
- Ofelia Torres, 16, died Friday from cancer, her family announced in a statement reported by local outlets.
- Days earlier, an immigration judge found Torres Maldonado conditionally eligible for cancellation of removal, protecting him from immediate deportation.
- Ofelia had advocated publicly for her father’s release, posting a video, speaking at news conferences, and attending court, including viewing the recent hearing via Zoom.
- ICE agents detained Torres Maldonado in October outside a Home Depot in Niles, a case that drew scrutiny as courts ordered a bond hearing and another judge later found the arrest unlawful.
- Attorneys emphasized his lack of a criminal record and family hardship, while a federal prosecutor acknowledged the family’s serious situation; an online fundraiser is supporting the family.