Virginia Congressman Meets Detained Immigrants with Criminal Histories

During a recent tour of the Farmville Detention Center in Virginia, Congressman Don Beyer requested to meet several undocumented immigrants who have serious criminal records, as noted by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

On Friday, Beyer visited this immigration facility in central Virginia, specifically asking to speak with detainees whose criminal histories were detailed by DHS. Among those he wanted to meet was Ricardo Hernando, a member of the notorious 18th Street gang, who has a past including armed robbery and other serious offenses.

The 18th Street gang, also known as Barrio 18, stems from Los Angeles and has a vast presence in both Mexico and Central America, with a membership in the tens of thousands. Their primary income typically comes from drug trafficking and they have been linked to numerous violent crimes, including murder and robbery.

DHS Deputy Chief Tricia McLaughlin confirmed Beyer’s request in a statement shared publicly. Meanwhile, a representative from Beyer’s office did not respond to inquiries regarding the matter.

McLaughlin also posed a rhetorical question, asking when Rep. Beyer would engage with American victims affected by crimes committed by these individuals.

In a statement to local news, Beyer mentioned that according to discussions with the superintendent of the facility, “probably three quarters” of the detainees are there for “civil reasons” only. Reports indicate that Virginia lawmakers also met with other detainees who appear to lack any criminal background.

DHS countered Beyer’s claims, stating that about 66% of detainees at the Farmville facility have been indicted or convicted of crimes within the U.S., not accounting for any possible criminal records from their home countries.

In addition to Hernando, Beyer also met with two individuals named Carlos Amaya, along with Dennis Hernandez Medina, who has been convicted of drug possession and distribution. Another detainee, Kevin Mark Cash, has a record related to DUI and reckless driving.

Across the nation, Democrats are actively opposing the Trump administration’s firm stance on illegal immigration, especially regarding conditions in detention centers. On July 30, numerous Democrats initiated a lawsuit pushing for greater access to these facilities, with the case currently progressing in federal court in Washington, D.C.