Filipino detainee freed after judge rules ICE's medical neglect unconstitutional

Filipino detainee freed after judge rules ICE's medical neglect unconstitutional

A group of people marching down a street holding a banner that reads "Amnesty International", with parked cars on either side and trees and buildings in the background, depicted in black and white.

Filipino detainee freed after judge rules ICE's medical neglect unconstitutional

A Filipino man held in a US immigration detention center has been freed after a federal judge ruled his treatment was unconstitutional. Greggy Sorio, who suffered severe health complications while detained, was released from Tacoma's Northwest ICE Processing Center following a court order. His case has drawn attention to medical neglect in detention facilities.

Sorio, originally from Lingayen, Pangasinan, moved to the USA on a green card in 2007. While in ICE custody, his health rapidly declined due to untreated conditions, including ulcerative colitis, anemia, and extreme weight loss. Staff repeatedly denied him proper medical attention, according to court findings.

The lack of care led to a bone infection, forcing doctors to amputate one of his toes and part of his foot. US District Judge Tana Lin ruled that Sorio's detention was 'punitive' and caused irreparable harm. She ordered his immediate release, calling the conditions unconstitutional.

Community groups, including the Tanggol Migrante Movement, welcomed the decision as 'an unexpected announcement.' Activists are now assisting Sorio with medical treatment and legal paperwork. However, despite his release, he remains under a deportation order and could still be removed from the country.

Official records show no other documented cases of Filipino detainees being released from ICE facilities due to health issues in the past five years.

Sorio's release comes after a judge confirmed his detention violated constitutional standards. His ongoing legal battle and medical recovery will depend on support from advocates. The case highlights the risks faced by detainees when medical care is delayed or denied.

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