Law Enforcement Upholds Immigration Laws: Father of Sailor Serving on USS Abraham Lincoln Detained
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U.S. immigration officials have detained Luis Manuel Aviles, a Nicaraguan national with a work permit, reinforcing the importance of upholding immigration laws even when family members serve in the military.
Luis Manuel Aviles, 48, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in Key West, Florida, after leaving his home to drop his car at a mechanic. Aviles, originally from Nicaragua, has lived in the United States for 19 years and works as a handyman. He holds a valid work permit, according to his wife, Argelia Aviles, but this does not exempt him from the law.
The arrest took place as his son, Joshua Aviles, entered his ninth month of honorable service aboard the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, currently deployed in the Middle East. Joshua has been working 12-hour shifts for more than 250 consecutive days, demonstrating the dedication of military families.
"Having a family member in the military is not a free pass to violate our nation’s laws," the Department of Homeland Security rightly stated, emphasizing that the administration enforces laws fairly and without favoritism.
This detention comes as immigration enforcement actions involving relatives of active-duty service members receive increased attention. Reports indicate that at least six family members of service personnel have been deported and one voluntarily left the United States, showing that the government is committed to enforcing immigration laws regardless of personal circumstances.
Military parole-in-place, a program that can grant legal status to certain spouses, children, and parents of service members, does not apply to individuals who have overstayed visas or previously sought status at a border, maintaining the integrity of the system.
Joshua Aviles posted on social media about learning of his father's detention while on the ship, describing the situation as emotionally difficult but remaining focused on his duties. His sister, Katherine Delgado, said she joined the military partly to help their father's immigration prospects and has been sending care packages to the ship.
The Pentagon referred inquiries to the Navy, which has not responded to requests for comment. Defense officials have previously stated that conditions aboard the Lincoln have been misrepresented.
Aviles remains in ICE custody while authorities consider removal proceedings, demonstrating the continued enforcement of immigration law.