A federal judge ruled that Jesus Romero-Hernandez, a Mexican citizen, will remain in custody, citing him as a flight risk and community threat. His recent arrest in Ithaca reignited national debate over deportation policies after local authorities allegedly released him before ICE could intervene.
Prosecutors detailed Hernandez’s history of arrests, including domestic violence charges in Georgia and property damage in New York, which led to a psychiatric commitment. He also allegedly assaulted law enforcement on multiple occasions and has been deported seven times since 2016.
Hernandez’s lawyer advocated for his release with mental health treatment, but the judge emphasized his criminal record, pending charges, and use of aliases in denying bail.
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