A man from Washington state who has resided in the United States for over 25 years was mistakenly arrested by ICE agents in late July, according to his attorney. Juan Martinez, 46, was apprehended on July 30 when he arrived at the gas station in Conway where he was employed. Attorney Lisa Seifert, representing Martinez, shared these details with Newsweek.
Seifert emphasized that Martinez had been performing his regular duties at his job, stating, “There was no reason to target this guy.” Martinez, originally from Mexico, immigrated to the United States in 2000. He has pursued legal permanent residency through his older brother, a U.S. citizen, according to Seifert. Prior to his arrest, Martinez noticed ICE agents at the gas station where he worked.
Prosecutors acknowledged in court documents that their initial aim was to locate another individual. Seifert speculated that ICE agents were searching for the previous owner of Martinez’s car, a silver Honda, which he recently purchased but had yet to register.
Currently, Martinez is held at the Northwest ICE Processing Center in Tacoma. He is scheduled to appear in court on October 8. Seifert expressed hope for a positive outcome, asserting, ‘We hope he is deemed eligible for permanent residency.’
The Department of Homeland Security did not respond to inquiries regarding the case. Meanwhile, an online fundraiser supporting Martinez has raised over $9,300. The fundraiser description highlights Martinez’s connection to the Conway community and refers to him affectionately as the ‘Mayor of Conway.’
Martinez, who has no criminal record, is remembered for bringing “kindness, laughter and conversation” to the gas station customers. Tim Ferrell, the fundraiser creator, shared his experiences working with Martinez on various projects at his property, calling him “super intelligent” and “personable.” Following Martinez’s detention, Ferrell assisted in connecting him with attorney Seifert.
Community member Lindsey Brooks expressed the impact of Martinez’s absence, noting that her son was particularly disturbed by the arrest. She shared, “My son came home and was so upset, saying ‘They took him.'”
Despite the challenges, Martinez remains optimistic as he awaits his next court date. Seifert mentioned his efforts to focus on mental well-being, including meditation and attending religious services. Martinez has formed connections with other detainees at the facility, maintaining a positive outlook.