Venezuelan Asylum Seeker’s Struggles in ICE Custody: A Detailed Account

A Venezuelan asylum seeker named Tangieth Paola Carrasquero Lopez remains in ICE custody in Georgia, battling untreated health conditions. The 23-year-old reports her struggles to receive medical care since her detention at an immigration appointment in Atlanta on July 27.

Carrasquero Lopez suffers from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), among other conditions. Despite a doctor’s warning about the dangers of interrupted treatment, she has only received ibuprofen for abdominal pain. ‘They provide pain medicine and assess its effect, but a doctor is not consulted,’ she shared.

However, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) spokesman indicated she ‘denied having any medical needs’ during intake. Later, she ‘tested positive for polycystic syndrome’ and was scheduled for medical evaluation.

Documentation reveals diagnoses including hepatic steatosis, obesity, and PCOS. A letter from her gastroenterologist, Dr. Arnaldo Jimenez, outlines the necessity of continuous treatment. While the conditions are not immediately life-threatening, the doctor emphasized ongoing care for weight management and metabolic health.

‘I respectfully request her medical needs be addressed with necessary care and medication to prevent complications,’ Dr. Jimenez stated.

Previously charged with minor traffic violations, Carrasquero Lopez experienced issues surrounding her detention. Her charge of driving without a valid license was amended, and she pleaded guilty to lesser offenses related to traffic infractions.

A DHS spokesperson assured that ICE provides medical, dental, and mental-health screening within 12 hours of detainee arrival, with full assessments occurring within two weeks, offering access to medical appointments and emergency care.

Presently at Irwin County Detention Center, Georgia, Carrasquero Lopez voices concern about her confinement’s impact on health. ‘The food is mainly carbohydrates, which I can’t handle,’ she stated.

Furthermore, she suffers unexplained pain, including frequent numbness in her arms and leg pain. Her partner, Andres, fears reprisals and cited her repeated requests for prescribed medications amid growing health concerns.

The case highlights ongoing debates over medical care in U.S. detention facilities since the Trump-era crackdown on immigration. Critics argue that rising detention numbers strain medical systems for those with chronic needs.

Carrasquero Lopez entered the U.S. in 2021 seeking asylum. She has attended immigration appointments on time, yet her detention perplexes her and her partner. With Temporary Protected Status and work authorization until 2030, her partner maintains, ‘We don’t understand why she is detained.’

Plans for a new beginning, including a job offer for a well-paying position and English classes at Gwinnett Technical College, were in place before the arrest. Carrasquero Lopez’s emotional distress is ongoing amid the situation.

DHS confirmed her continued custody pending removal proceedings with ‘full due process’ offered.