Pastor’s Legal Struggle

A pastor, Molis Augustave, is facing deportation to Haiti after U.S. immigration officials rejected his application for permanent residency. This decision has left him separated from his wife, Omara Nunez, and their two young children.

Augustave, who was detained in Pennsylvania during a vehicle stop, remains in immigration detention. He expressed his desire to return to his family in Pennsylvania through a statement released by the advocacy group, We Are CASA.

Community and Advocacy Response

Previously scheduled for deportation on September 17, Augustave was removed from the flight at the last moment. His advocates emphasize his role as a community leader before his detention.

We Are CASA and American Families United have voiced their concerns about his deportation. They question the benefits to the U.S. in deporting a community-centric individual.

Detention Conditions

While detained, Augustave continues his pastoral duties among over 100 detainees. He reports meeting individuals facing uncertainty and distress over their futures.

Allegations Against DHS and USCIS

An ongoing campaign led to a brief halt in Augustave’s deportation. Advocates allege the Department of Homeland Security retaliated with efforts to expedite his deportation process.

Ama Frimpong of We Are CASA criticized the USCIS for denying his application unfairly. Attempts to reopen his removal proceedings remain pending.

Official DHS Position

DHS stated that Augustave was detained following collaboration with local police in York, Pennsylvania. His initial arrest occurred after entering the U.S. illegally in San Ysidro, California, in 2016.

The DHS encourages voluntary self-deportation, offering incentives to illegal aliens. They emphasize law enforcement partnerships for arresting criminal illegal aliens nationwide.

Impact on Family

Nunez, a U.S. citizen, faces challenges maintaining the household in her husband’s absence. She questions the implications of their future if he is deported.

American Families United asserts that Augustave’s case is not isolated, highlighting systemic issues that burden families of U.S. citizens due to immigration bureaucracy.