In El Paso, Texas, an active-duty U.S. Army soldier and veteran of the Afghanistan war faces a challenging situation regarding his wife’s immigration status. Sgt. 1st Class Jose Serrano, who has served for 27 years and was deployed to Afghanistan three times, fears his wife could be deported, potentially affecting his career.
Serrano’s wife, Deisy Rivera Ortega, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in April during an immigration appointment. The Department of Homeland Security stated her arrest was due to a deportation order issued in 2019 and her unauthorized entry into the U.S. over ten years ago.
After spending a month in detention, Rivera Ortega was released following media coverage by CBS News and intervention by political figures, including Illinois Senator Tammy Duckworth, who contacted DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin.
“I felt very happy,” Rivera Ortega expressed in Spanish about her release, describing it as unexpected.
Serrano shared his relief upon learning of his wife’s freedom, though she remains subject to ICE monitoring, including an ankle device and movement restrictions within El Paso.
Rivera Ortega emphasized her willingness to comply with these conditions, stating, “What’s important is that I’m here.” Serrano echoed her sentiments, grateful for her presence at home but aware of the ongoing legal challenges.
In 2019, an immigration judge granted Rivera Ortega protection under the United Nations Convention Against Torture, shielding her from deportation to El Salvador. However, this does not prevent deportation to another country. She was informed while in custody of a possible deportation to Mexico, a country without personal connections for her.
Their lawyer, John B. Moore, is exploring legal options for Rivera Ortega to obtain permanent U.S. residency, potentially through a green card. He argues that the government could reopen her immigration case or find other solutions. Her Parole-in-Place application, which could have led to a green card, was denied.
“The point is their hands are not tied. They have a choice,” Moore stressed, referring to immigration officials.
Serrano questioned the rationale behind his wife’s initial arrest, as Rivera Ortega attended an appointment related to her legal application.
Despite these personal challenges, Serrano’s commitment to his military career remains unwavering. He mentioned receiving substantial support from the Army and his superiors during this period.
“I love this country,” he affirmed. “And I love my job.”