Grandview, WA – Ramón Rodriguez Vazquez, a 62-year-old farmworker, recently made the difficult choice to return to Mexico after facing immigration issues. For 16 years, Mr. Rodriguez worked in Washington state, contributing to the local agricultural economy and raising his family.
Earlier this year, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) took Mr. Rodriguez into custody. While supporters provided letters vouching for his character and the needs of his family, he was not granted bond.
Mr. Rodriguez was then held at an ICE detention center in Tacoma. Facing health challenges and the emotional strain of being separated from his loved ones, he ultimately decided to leave the country.
Mr. Rodriguez’s situation highlights a broader trend of individuals choosing to leave the U.S. voluntarily. The government reports an increase in “voluntary departures,” where individuals leave without a formal deportation on their record.
Officials emphasize that securing our borders and ensuring that immigration laws are followed remains a top priority.
