Federal Judge Orders Bond Hearing for Immigrant Father of Cancer-Stricken Daughter

A federal judge has ruled that Ruben Torres Maldonado, a Mexican national detained by immigration agents, was held unlawfully without a bond hearing and ordered that one be provided by October 31. Maldonado's detention disrupted the cancer treatment of his 16-year-old daughter, Ofelia, who suffers from metastatic alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma and requires ongoing care supported by her parents. Despite the violation of Maldonado's rights, the judge did not order his immediate release, citing legal constraints and the government's concerns about his alleged failure to cooperate and prior driving offenses. Maldonado has lived in the U.S. since 2003, has minor traffic violations, and is a primary caregiver to his children, including supporting Ofelia during her treatment. Family members, attorneys, and elected officials have advocated for his release, emphasizing the emotional and practical hardships faced by the family. Ofelia has appeared in court in a wheelchair to support her father, highlighting the human impact of the case.