[VT – WASHINGTON, D.C. ] July 21, 2025 – The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a statement today addressing recent media reports alleging that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) secretly deported a man known as the “Allentown grandfather,” Luis Leon, to Guatemala and that he died while in ICE custody.
According to an article published on July 20 by The Morning Call in Allentown, Pennsylvania, the family of Leon claimed he was handcuffed and taken by federal officers during a green card appointment in Philadelphia, and later informed that he had died in ICE custody. However, DHS stated there is no record of Leon attending any green card appointment in Philadelphia or the surrounding area on or around June 20, 2025, nor any record of his arrest or deportation.
ICE confirmed that Leon, a Chilean national who entered the U.S. in 2015 under the visa waiver program, has not been deported to Guatemala. The Guatemalan Institute of Migration also told the Associated Press that it has not received anyone matching Leon’s identity.
Leon’s family reported that a woman claiming to be an immigration lawyer contacted them offering assistance but did not clarify how she obtained information about the case, and also allegedly told them Leon died in ICE custody.
DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stated that ICE did not arrest or deport Leon and denied allegations that ICE “disappears” individuals. She noted an increase in assaults against ICE officers in recent months.
The case has raised questions about immigration enforcement transparency and the verification of information. Conflicting accounts from involved parties mean the situation remains under further review.
