Recent Graduate Arrested at Immigration Appointment in Los Angeles

A recently graduated young man was arrested during his immigration appointment in Los Angeles, in a case that left his family torn between celebration and distress. The arrest occurred one day after his graduation and once again brought focus to arrests during immigration proceedings.

The Urbina family went to an immigration office for a deportation process that remains open. According to their account, ICE agents approached while they were waiting their turn and took away Wilbert Urbina García without giving the family time to react.

What Happened at the Immigration Appointment?

The family arrived with their scheduled appointment and registered as instructed. The appointment included 4 family members, among them Wilbert’s mother and older brother. While they waited, immigration agents appeared and executed the arrest.

The mother, Yadira García, recounted that she questioned the agents about why they were detaining her son. According to her account, their response was that Wilbert was already 18 years old. That detail left her with more questions than answers.

The older brother, Wilson, stated that the detention order was for him and not for Wilbert. He said he tried to prevent the arrest but was unable to stop the agents. The family describes the moment as an abrupt turn from joy to sadness.

The case has caused concern among immigrant families. Many people attend appointments because they seek to resolve pending matters. However, an arrest in that context generates fear and distrust.

What Does DHS Say About His Record?

The Department of Homeland Security indicated that Wilbert was arrested in 2022 for entering without authorization. Subsequently, he was released under the parole program, a temporary status that does not grant permanent residence.

Parole is used for humanitarian reasons or public benefit. It allows temporary residence in the United States and, in some cases, to apply for a work permit. But it is not equivalent to permanent legal status.

That distinction is central to the immigration debate. Many families believe that being released under parole reduces the risk of future detention. In reality, the benefit can end and the process can continue.

Urbina’s attorney, Armineh Ebrahimian, said there is no reason for ICE to have him in their sights. That position suggests that the defense will seek to challenge the necessity of the arrest. The case still does not have a final resolution.