Henry Morales Hernandez, a 55-year-old former Venezuelan army major, is in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). He has been detained since May, following a traffic stop in Collier County, Florida. A charge of driving under the influence was later dropped due to insufficient evidence, but the arrest highlights increased immigration enforcement under current federal policies.
Arrest and Detention
Morales Hernandez has been in the U.S. on a tourist visa since 2021, seeking asylum from Venezuela due to fears of persecution. Despite the dropped charges, ICE took him into custody for allegedly driving under the influence. His wife, Esmeralda San Andres Morales, disputes these claims, stating that his blood alcohol level was below the legal limit and that he has no criminal history.
According to a spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security, Morales Hernandez was detained by local authorities for the DUI incident, and ICE filed a detainer the same day. His legal proceedings in immigration court continue, with no bond granted.
Background and Asylum Plea
Morales Hernandez served in the Venezuelan military from 1993 to 2008, achieving the rank of major. His service included operations near the Colombian border, where he was injured and later took on intelligence roles. Disillusionment with the Chavez regime prompted his departure from the military and subsequent relocation to Argentina, where he remained active in opposition activities before coming to the U.S. to seek asylum.
In his asylum application, Morales Hernandez cited threats due to his opposition to the Venezuelan government. However, his request is still pending in immigration court.
Temporary Protected Status Challenges
Morales Hernandez also held Temporary Protected Status (TPS), which allowed him to reside legally in the U.S., given Venezuela’s ongoing instability. But recent policy changes have cast uncertainty on this status. Controversies around TPS have arisen due to changes made by the Trump administration, which argued that circumstances in Venezuela no longer justified the designation.
The situation is complicated as some legal challenges are ongoing, leaving many TPS holders, including Venezuelans, in a state of uncertainty.
Family Impact and Support
The detention of Morales Hernandez has significantly impacted his family. His wife emphasized the emotional and financial strains, highlighting that he is the primary income source. Letters from family members submitted to the court described him as a dedicated family man and positive role model.
His stepson, Isaiah Acevedo, serves in the U.S. Army and credits Morales Hernandez with influencing his commitment to service. Stepdaughter Izandria Zabala described him as a consistent and responsible caregiver who has deeply contributed to their family dynamics.
With a hearing scheduled soon, Morales Hernandez remains in custody, awaiting the next steps in his immigration case.