Pritchard Park protest over deportation case

Statement

From the Asheville branch of the National Immigrant Youth Alliance

Francisco Hernandez came to the United States at age 14 with his parents. Now, 23, he was charged with a DUI while trying to push a car to a safe area on a highway. He graduated from McDowell High School and was hoping to attend McDowell Technical College when he was arrested.

As the sole provider for his family, Hernandez cooperated with authorities and received a two-year probation. According to his supporters, he has never missed a probation check-in, and has met all requirements to clear him of the charge.

He was on his way to a probation check-in when he was detained on Nov. 28, 2012, by Immigrations and Customs Enforcement officers, who have held him since pending deportation.

Supporters are working to stop the deportation and are asking Sen. Hagan to support Hernandez in this case.

For more information about the case from the protest organizers, click here.

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