Martin Soto released from ICE custody after eight-month detention

Martin Soto, a Peruvian immigrant, has been released from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody after being detained for more than eight months. U.S. District Judge Jamel K. Semper ruled that Soto’s continued detention was illegal.

Soto’s case gained attention following his involvement in organizing a labor and hunger strike at Delaney Hall over alleged deplorable conditions. Following the strike, he was transferred to the Elizabeth Detention Center, where he reportedly spent four months in solitary confinement. His legal team raised serious concerns regarding his mental health, noting that he experienced recurring suicidal thoughts during his period of restrictive housing.

During his detention, Soto’s family faced significant hardship; his wife, Gabriela Soto, reported that she suffered a miscarriage at seven and a half months while her husband was in custody. Soto’s attorney, Selenia DeStefani, has filed for a U visa on his behalf, citing his status as a victim of crimes such as involuntary servitude and obstruction of justice.