CHICAGO — Ruben Torres Maldonado, a Chicago resident whose daughter is battling aggressive cancer, will be allowed to return home after being granted bond by an immigration judge. The ruling comes as a relief for his family as they contend with the severe health crisis affecting their 16-year-old daughter, Ofelia.
Attorneys representing Torres Maldonado argued for his release after he was detained on October 18 during a routine encounter at a Home Depot store in the suburbs. The judge observed Torres Maldonado's clean criminal record and determined that his circumstances warranted humanitarian consideration.
Ofelia has been diagnosed with metastatic alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of soft tissue cancer, requiring extensive chemotherapy and radiation treatment. Her father’s absence during her treatment has been emotionally challenging for the family.
“We are grateful the judge made a compassionate decision to reunite Ruben with his family,” noted Kalman Resnick, Torres Maldonado’s attorney. The bond set was $2,000, and he is currently in the process of applying for permanent residency in the United States.
Ofelia expressed her joy in a statement, saying, “I can’t wait to see my dad. We need him to be at home with me and our family.” She characterized her father as dedicated, emphasizing his sacrifices for their wellbeing.
The family has received considerable public support, with a GoFundMe campaign launched to help cover medical expenses and legal fees. Ofelia’s mother, Sandibell Hidalgo, expressed profound gratitude to community members who have provided assistance and emotional support during this difficult time.
This incident occurs within a context of intensified immigration enforcement measures in the Chicago area, leading to increased anxiety among immigrant communities. A previous ruling by U.S. District Judge Jeremy Daniel noted that Torres Maldonado’s detention was unconstitutional, yet he remained unable to facilitate immediate release.
The Department of Homeland Security claims Torres Maldonado has resided in the United States illegally since entering in 2003. His story resonates as a representation of the struggle many families face amid strict immigration policies, particularly when health crises arise.
