Allan Marrero, a 34-year-old Caymanian native and American green card holder, was taken into custody by ICE agents in Brooklyn back in November of 2025. At the time of his detainment, he was going to a marriage-based green card appointment, which caused a lot of controversy.

According to the Department of Homeland Security, Marrero originally came to the U.S. in 2013. Originally, he applied for asylum due to fear of prosecution for being a member of the LGBTQ+ community. Over the past several years, he attended asylum hearings and remained legally in the U.S.

That said, in 2022, Marrero missed a court appearance notification and a court hearing. Marrero claims that he did not know that he had missed an appointment. Since he wasn’t aware he’d broken the law by not attending the hearing, he wasn’t aware that ICE agents would be waiting for him when he and his husband went to their routine green card appointment in 2025.

Unfortunately, Marrero has been transported to at least five different facilities across the U.S. while he awaits a verdict. He’s also been detained at the infamous Alligator Alcatraz in Florida.

Recently, an immigration judge attempted to grant Marrero bail, but the Department of Homeland Security put a stay on his release. That said, Marrero will continue to be held in custody in Natchez, Mississippi.

According to news media outlets, Marrero’s case is not an unusual one. Unfortunately, many suspected illegal immigrants are currently being held in detention centers and denied bail. A recent ruling by an appeals court determined that this practice is legal under the law.

What to Do If You Get Stopped by ICE in Brooklyn

If you are approached by a law enforcement or ICE agent in Brooklyn, then it’s important to consider your next steps carefully. Never attempt to run or lie to the officers because these types of behaviors will immediately escalate the situation. Similarly, do your best not to be aggressive or confrontational.

Instead, refuse to answer any questions about your immigration status by invoking your right to remain silent. Directly ask, “Am I free to leave?” If they answer yes, then you have the right to walk away and not answer further questions. If the agents show up at your house, then say, “I do not consent to you entering my home.” You have the right to deny access unless the authorities produce a legal warrant.

If the authorities push back or claim you are under arrest, then make sure you obey their commands. As soon as you are able to do so, request an attorney. If you cannot afford one, then you should request that one be appointed to you.

Have you recently been detained in or around Brooklyn? Are you concerned that your rights may have been violated? Here at the Bukh Law Firm, our team of attorneys is prepared to help. Schedule a free, no-obligation phone call with our attorneys now by leaving your contact details on our online form.