Washington State Resident Detained by ICE: Community Rallies for Juan Martinez

Juan Martinez, a resident of Washington state, was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on July 30. Despite living in the U.S. for over 25 years, Martinez was not the target of the ICE operation, according to his attorney Lisa Seifert.

Martinez, aged 46, was picked up by ICE agents at the gas station in Conway where he worked, despite being well-known in the community. Seifert stated there was no reason to target Martinez, who simply showed up for his job.

Originally from Mexico, Martinez entered the U.S. in 2000 and pursued residency through his U.S. citizen brother. Before his arrest, he noticed ICE agents near the gas station. Prosecutors later admitted they were searching for another person.

Seifert speculated that ICE was actually looking for the previous owner’s vehicle, a silver Honda Martinez purchased without changing its registration. This led to his detention.

Martinez is housed at the Northwest ICE Processing Center in Tacoma and is scheduled for a court date on October 8. Seifert is hopeful that Martinez will be granted permanent residency status.

Although the Department of Homeland Security did not respond to inquiries, a fundraiser for Martinez has raised over $9,300. The fundraising site states that Martinez is well-liked in Conway, where he earned the nickname ‘Mayor of Conway’ for his popularity.

Martinez, who has no criminal background, contributed kindness and conversation at the Red Barn gas station. Tim Ferrell, who started the fundraiser, described him as intelligent and engaging, having worked closely with Martinez on his property for several years.

Ferrell, who met Martinez nine years ago, helped connect him with Seifert after his detention, expressing empathy for Martinez’s situation.

Lindsey Brooks, a regular customer at the gas station, acknowledged the impact of Martinez’s absence on the community, noting its emotional toll on her son.

Seifert reported that Martinez maintains a positive mindset ahead of his court appearance. Advising him to meditate and engage in religious services, she noted his friendly nature has helped him build connections at the detention center, despite the challenges.