New York, NY – Today, New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin issued the following statement after an immigration judge ordered the removal of City Council employee Rafael Rubio from the United States. Rubio was detained more than two months ago during a routine immigration check-in despite having legal authorization to remain in the country.

“Today, Judge Conroy ordered the removal of Rafael Rubio, our City Council employee, from the United States. We are outraged and will continue to pursue every legal avenue to secure his release and ensure his case is properly heard on appeal.

“This outcome does not change the fundamental facts of this case: Rafael had legal authorization to remain in the United States, he followed the rules, and he showed up for a routine immigration appointment — only to be detained and held for months now.

“Today’s ruling appears to hinge on a procedural issue related to his asylum application. That is extremely troubling. A technical error should not determine the fate of a man who has done everything right and poses no risk to anyone.

“Let me be clear: Rafael should not continue to be detained while this is sorted out.

“An appeal will be filed, and we demand that Rafael’s case be properly heard by the deadline on April 17. At a minimum, he should be released pending that appeal. There is no justification for continuing to hold him under these circumstances.

“Rafael is a valued public servant and a beloved member of the City Council team. His continued detention is unjust, and we will not accept this outcome.”

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