NEWARK, NJ — A New Jersey pastor has been released from immigration detention after nearly three weeks, drawing attention from lawmakers and advocacy groups amid ongoing debates over federal immigration enforcement.
The Rev. Yeison Cortes Vasquez was held for 18 days at Delaney Hall in Newark after being detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. He was released on bond and is now required to wear a GPS monitor while his immigration case proceeds.
Federal officials said Cortes Vasquez entered the United States from Colombia in 2016 on a tourist visa and remained in the country beyond its expiration. His release comes as he awaits further removal proceedings, with a court appearance scheduled for mid-April.
Supporters, including faith leaders and elected officials, had called for his release, describing his detention as unjust. Rep. Rob Menendez and others pointed to the case as an example of broader concerns over immigration enforcement policies.
Authorities said the pastor would receive full due process as his case continues. Video shared by supporters showed him reuniting with family and community members following his release.
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