Deportation Case Dismissed for Landscaper
An immigration judge has dismissed a deportation case involving a landscaper who was arrested last year in Southern California. Narciso Barranco, a father of three U.S. Marines, came to the United States from Mexico in the 1990s but lacks legal status. He is currently making efforts to obtain legal permanent residency.
Barranco’s detention in June caused significant media attention, particularly during the Trump administration when immigration issues were heavily scrutinized. The incident drew protests and criticism regarding the government’s approach to enforcement.
A bystander recorded the arrest, which took place outside an IHOP restaurant where Barranco was mowing grass. In the video, federal agents can be seen struggling with him before pinning him to the ground.
After his arrest, Barranco was taken to a detention center in Los Angeles. He was later released on $3,000 bail and required to wear an ankle monitor.
On January 28, Judge Christine S. Piepmeyer closed Barranco’s deportation case, noting that he is the father of three sons serving in the U.S. military and has shown evidence of eligibility for legal status.
In a phone interview, Barranco expressed relief, saying, “I feel happy. Thank God it doesn’t weigh as much on me.” He mentioned he is mostly staying home and hasn’t been able to go out much until everything is settled legally.
On Thursday, the Department of Homeland Security declared intentions to appeal the judge’s ruling, which was first reported by the New York Times.
Barranco’s attorney, Lisa Ramirez, highlighted that her client felt “extremely relieved” at the removal of the ankle monitor and the cancellation of the check-ins with immigration officials.
Ramirez described the anxiety surrounding the arrest as traumatic, pointing out that Barranco has no criminal record and suggesting he was targeted simply for being a landscaper in Santa Ana.
She also mentioned that Barranco has applied for a parole program that provides protection from deportation for military parents while assisting in acquiring green card status. If granted, Barranco would receive a work permit, though the entire process might take over six months.
DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin defended the actions of the arresting officers, claiming Barranco did not comply with commands and allegedly brandished a lawn mower. McLaughlin insisted that the officers acted according to their training to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
Barranco’s son, Alejandro—who is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran—stated that his father had never harmed anyone and criticized the use of force during the arrest. He felt it was unnecessary and noted that it contrasted with military training. Alejandro, who retired from the Marine Corps in 2023, also said that he supports the military’s decisions regarding troop withdrawals in Afghanistan.
Two of Barranco’s sons are currently enlisted and active duty in the Marines.
