Transgender Woman Wrongfully Deported by Trump Administration

URGENT UPDATE: The Trump administration has confirmed that it “inadvertently” deported Britania Uriostegui Rios, a transgender woman, to Mexico despite a judge’s explicit order barring her removal due to fears of torture and persecution. This shocking incident occurred on November 11, 2023, heightening concerns over the administration’s handling of vulnerable individuals.

In a dramatic turn of events, federal officials have stated that Uriostegui Rios, who is currently in Mexico, will be allowed to re-enter the United States if she can reach the border. Upon her return, she will be placed back in ICE custody as officials seek to deport her again, potentially to a different country. This situation marks yet another instance of the administration’s troubling deportation practices, raising alarms about the treatment of those protected under court orders.

This case is particularly alarming as it is at least the fifth documented incident this year involving wrongful deportations despite existing legal protections. Uriostegui Rios’s attorneys are actively suing the government, asserting that she should not be required to return to federal custody upon her re-entry. They emphasize the extreme danger she faces in Mexico, noting, “if she happens to make it to a port of entry without dying.”

According to the Trans Murder Monitoring Project, Mexico is one of the most hazardous countries in the world for transgender individuals. Reports reveal pervasive and often lethal violence against this community, with significant risks that remain poorly understood.

Court filings indicate that Uriostegui Rios, who entered the U.S. in 2003, has faced a challenging legal history, including multiple convictions. Despite these issues, an immigration judge had blocked her removal to Mexico, citing a “likelihood” of torture. Nevertheless, she was flown from a detention center in Louisiana to Texas and subsequently deported without her medication, money, or a cell phone.

The Department of Justice’s attorney, Shannon Smitherman, acknowledged the error via email, stating, “ICE confirmed that your client was removed to Mexico inadvertently.” The judicial system is now facing intense scrutiny as the attorneys for Uriostegui Rios highlight the grave risks she encounters in Mexico, including threats from criminal organizations.

Her attorney, Bridget Pranzatelli, detailed that Uriostegui Rios has endured severe trauma, including sexual trafficking by cartels at a young age. Pranzatelli underscored the profound psychological impact of these experiences, stating, “There are many actors in Mexico who want to hurt her.” The judge’s determination that her life is in jeopardy if returned to Mexico underscores the urgent need for protection.

Since her deportation, Uriostegui Rios has been forced to hide her identity while seeking refuge with family members, fearing rejection due to her transgender status. Her legal team is advocating for her release from ICE custody upon her return, arguing that the administration cannot be trusted to adhere to legal mandates.

As this situation unfolds, the implications are wide-ranging, not only for Uriostegui Rios but for others facing similar vulnerabilities under current immigration policies. The spotlight remains on the administration’s deportation practices as advocates push for accountability and protection for marginalized individuals.

Watch for updates on this developing story as it raises crucial questions about the treatment of transgender individuals and the responsibilities of government agencies in safeguarding their rights.