A Honduran immigrant living in Florida has been fined more than $1.8 million for failing to comply with a deportation order issued in 2005.
This case has generated concern among the Hispanic community in the United States due to the legal and family implications it entails; in an interview with CBS, the woman they call “Maria” shed tears.
An unprecedented fine
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) imposed a penalty of $1,821,350 on the woman, equivalent to $500 for each day she has remained in the country since the issuance of the deportation order in April 2005.
The official notification was sent on May 9, 2025.
Context of the case
The immigrant, a 41-year-old mother of three U.S. citizen children, has lived in the United States for more than three decades.
In 2005, he received a deportation order in absentia after failing to appear for a court hearing.
Since then he has maintained a stable life, with no recent criminal record.
In 2024, her attorney, Michelle Sanchez, filed a motion to reopen the case, arguing that her client meets the requirements to apply for permanent residency under the “10-Year Law,” which allows her to avoid deportation upon proof of continuous residency, good moral character, and that deportation would cause exceptional hardship to a U.S. citizen family member.
The distress of the Hispanic community
This case highlights the importance of being informed about immigration status and the possible consequences of not complying with deportation orders.
The imposition of such high fines can have devastating effects on families settled in the United States, especially when U.S. citizen children are involved.
Attorney Sanchez has expressed that these sanctions seek to intimidate immigrants, imposing impossible sums of money to force them to leave the country.
He has also pointed out that appearing before ICE to contest the fine could result in immediate deportation, which would severely affect his children.
La mujer tiene el derecho de ampararse a dicha medida porque ha vivido por más de 10 años en Estados Unidos
Recommendations for immigrants in the U.S.
Buzzy
Consult with an immigration attorney: It is critical to seek legal advice to understand the options available and the associated risks.
Staying informed: Keeping abreast of immigration policies and changes in legislation can help you make informed decisions.
Document residency and conduct: Keeping evidence of continued residency, employment and good behavior can be useful in legal proceedings.
The situation of this Honduran immigrant highlights the challenges faced by many in the U.S. Hispanic community.
It is essential to be informed and seek legal support to navigate the complex immigration system and protect families.
Here you can watch the interview of the Honduran woman affected by the fine.
Find out more at QuéOnnda.com.
