Venezuelan journalist detained by ICE in Utah

Venezuelan journalist José Gustavo Párraga Durán is currently in custody by U.S. immigration authorities in Utah. Párraga, who has lived in the United States for nearly a decade, has a pending asylum application.

His family and the Association of Venezuelan Journalists Abroad (Apevex) have raised concerns regarding his detention. They state that Párraga has no criminal record or traffic violations and has worked as a safety manager during his time in the country. His family expressed fear that deportation to Venezuela could be dangerous due to his journalistic background and political affiliations with the Voluntad Popular party.

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist with legal fees and potential bail to help him continue his immigration process outside of detention. His wife noted that the detention has resulted in the loss of his job and threatens the stability of their home.