Father of Murdered Girl Nearly Deported Before Testimony

Carmelo Gonzalez, the father of 11-year-old Maria Gonzalez, was nearly deported by ICE just before he was set to testify in the murder case of his daughter. Maria was found dead in their Pasadena, Texas apartment in August 2023, and her father is considered a crucial witness against Juan Carlos Garcia Rodriguez, who is charged with her murder. Gonzalez was detained after a DWI arrest, despite having a pending U-Visa application, which typically protects crime victims who cooperate with law enforcement. Harris County District Attorney Sean Teare expressed grave concerns about Gonzalez's potential deportation, citing it as a significant barrier to prosecuting the case effectively. This incident highlights broader fears that immigration enforcement policies are deterring immigrant witnesses from cooperating with the judicial system. As of now, Gonzalez remains in custody as efforts are underway to prevent his deportation.