Noem Deportation of Trans Woman Sparks Outrage Over Potential Torture
The Trump administration admitted to illegally deporting Britania Uriostegui Rios, a Mexican trans woman, to Mexico despite a court order barring her removal due to the likelihood of torture. After a felony assault conviction, Uriostegui Rios faced deportation proceedings, but the judge found she would be in danger in Mexico. The Justice Department acknowledged the “inadvertent” removal and offered her reentry, though her legal status remains in question as Homeland Security seeks to send her to another country. Uriostegui Rios’ attorneys are fighting to keep her out of ICE custody and highlight the administration’s disregard for court orders, particularly given her vulnerable status as a transgender woman facing potential persecution.
John Q. Hosedrinker