FORT WORTH, Texas — A North Texas man whose arrest drew national attention for what civil liberties groups call “guilt by literature” has turned himself back in to federal authorities after what appears to have been an accidental release from custody. Daniel Sanchez Estrada, a green card holder, had been jailed for five months on charges linked not to a July 4 ICE protest itself, but to moving a box of anarchist zines two days later. He was unexpectedly released the day before Thanksgiving — only to be ordered back to jail as he awaits trial.
Sanchez Estrada, who never attended the protest outside ICE’s Prairieland Detention Center, is charged with conspiring to conceal documents and faces up to 20 years in prison. Prosecutors say the literature he moved carried anti-government and anti-Trump themes; Sanchez Estrada says the material is protected by the First Amendment.
Civil liberties groups, including the Freedom of the Press Foundation, warn the case could set a dangerous precedent as the Trump administration intensifies efforts against so-called antifa activity. Supporters say only one person fired a weapon during the demonstration, and that Sanchez Estrada is being prosecuted solely for his wife’s alleged involvement and his possession of political literature.
He returned to custody Thursday after spending a week with family. His wife, Maricela Rueda, who faces life in prison if convicted, pleaded not guilty.
Trial is currently scheduled for January 20.
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