New York: Victor Avila, a 66-year-old grandfather and permanent U.S. resident, had only one thing on his mind when he landed at San Francisco International Airport on May 7: seeing his family. He had just returned from visiting his son, a U.S. Air Force serviceman stationed in Japan. But within minutes of landing, Avila’s decades-long American life took a shocking turn—he was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Despite holding a valid green card since 1967, Avila was flagged by immigration officials over two misdemeanor convictions from 2009—a DUI and a minor drug offense. He served his time, turned his life around, and has lived quietly in Chula Vista, California, working as a legal assistant. Now, 16 years later, those same charges have placed him on the verge of deportation.
His family, friends, and coworkers are rallying to his defense. “He’s a kind soul who’s raised kids, paid taxes, and stayed out of trouble for over a decade,” said Julia Martinez, a neighbor and community organizer. “He’s more American than most of us.”
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“If He’s Not Safe, Who Is?”: The Fear Ripple Among Green Card Holders
Avila’s story is becoming a flashpoint in the national conversation around immigration enforcement—and what it means to be “legal” in America today.
Thousands of permanent residents are now asking: Can a green card protect you if you’ve made a mistake—even years ago? According to immigration experts, the answer isn’t always yes.
“Green cards are conditional,” says Angela Romero, an immigration attorney based in Los Angeles. “A trip abroad can trigger re-entry screenings. If ICE finds a past conviction that qualifies under deportable grounds—even a misdemeanor—they can detain you.”
In Avila’s case, ICE chose to act. After initial questioning at SFO, he was transferred to a Bakersfield detention facility. His family says he had no warning, no legal counsel at the airport, and very little clarity on what came next.
His deportation hearing is set for July 15, and community members plan to attend and speak on his behalf. Advocates say that public support could influence prosecutorial discretion, which may allow ICE to drop the case or defer action.
Not an Isolated Incident
Immigration attorneys are pointing out that Avila’s case is not unique.
In 2024 alone, over 2,000 green card holders were detained at U.S. airports over old offenses, many of which were previously resolved in court.
ICE does not always notify individuals in advance—many find out only when re-entering the country.
Past efforts to codify protections for long-term legal residents have repeatedly stalled in Congress.
“There’s a legal but unjust zone,” says Romero. “ICE has the power—but the question is, should they be using it this way?”
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What You Can Do
If you or someone you know is a green card holder:
✅ Review your travel risks with an attorney if you’ve ever had legal issues.
✅ Carry supporting documents when re-entering the U.S., including court dismissal letters or rehabilitation certificates.
✅ Know your rights: You can request a lawyer, remain silent, and avoid signing any documents under pressure.
✅ Support others: Public petitions and letters can sway decisions during deportation proceedings.
This Could Be Anyone
Victor Avila’s story is a reminder that a green card isn’t always a guarantee. It’s a wake-up call for millions of legal residents who live with the quiet assumption that time and good behavior have put the past behind them.
His family is hoping his story brings awareness—and justice. “He raised his family here. His home is here,” Leticia said. “Isn’t that what being American is about?”
