Arrest During Traffic Stop leads to Detention

Felipe Zapata Velásquez,a 27-year-old Colombian national and student at the University of Florida,has been detained by Immigration and Customs enforcement (ICE) following a traffic stop in Gainesville. The incident, which occurred late last month, has ignited a wave of concern and calls for his immediate release from legislators and advocates alike.

circumstances Surrounding the Arrest

According to reports, Zapata Velásquez was initially pulled over on March 28 for driving without a license. His mother, Claudia Velásquez, told NTN24 that he was in the process of obtaining the necessary I-20 form to apply for a driver’s license when the stop occurred. Following the traffic stop, ICE agents reportedly transported him to Jacksonville, where he was presented with a challenging choice: remain in detention while awaiting an Immigration Court hearing or sign a deportation order.

His mother stated that he chose the deportation order,allegedly without legal counsel,and is currently being held at the Krome detention Center in Miami-Dade County.

Student’s Academic Standing and Visa Status

Zapata Velásquez is a third-year student pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Food and Resource Economics at the University of Florida, confirmed by a university spokesperson. He is studying in the U.S. on an F1 visa, which allows foreign nationals to pursue academic studies.Reports indicate that he was in the process of renewing his visa when he was detained. Prior to attending the University of Florida, he graduated from Santa Fe College in 2023, with the University of Florida’s International Center assisting with his transition.

Legislators Voice Outrage and Demand Action

The arrest has drawn sharp criticism from Florida legislators. Democratic Representative Yvonne Hisson questioned the severity of the response, stating, Why not put a fine? But being arrested for such a crime is absurd and quite alarming. She added,Now more than ever,immigrants are attacked.We must raise our voice and not allow this to continue without expressing our outrage.

Senator Shevrin Jones echoed Hisson’s sentiments, calling for Zapata Velásquez’s release and urging a bipartisan approach to immigration reform. In a statement, Jones said:

What we are seeing at this time is not at all the way of moving forward… What are we, as a state and as a country? What message are we trying to send students who are here legally, who are doing the right thing to become productive members of society?
Senator shevrin Jones

Concerns Over Immigration Enforcement Policies

The detention of Zapata Velásquez has raised concerns about the current climate surrounding immigration enforcement. Representative Maxwell Frost stated:

An international student at the University of Florida with an F-1 visa became the last victim of kidnapping of the Trump management. Although he was in the process of renewing his visa, Felipe Zapata Velásquez is arrested at the Krome detention center and his family knows nothing about him since April 1.
Representative Maxwell Frost

This incident occurs amidst ongoing debates about immigration policies and the treatment of foreign students and residents. According to recent data from the Pew Research Center,deportations have fluctuated in recent years,with increased scrutiny on individuals with even minor infractions.

ICE Response Awaited

The Self-reliant florida Alligator has reached out to ICE for comment on the situation. As of publication, no statement has been received.