A group of Venezuelan immigrants who were deported to El Salvador by the Trump administration has filed a complaint with the Department of Homeland Security, claiming their removal was illegal. Neiyerver Andrián Leon Rengel, one of those deported, reported experiencing “physical, verbal, and emotional abuse” while incarcerated at the notorious Cecot prison, known for its harsh conditions, and he is associated with the Tren de Aragua gang.
Rengel’s deportation occurred just two days after a federal judge placed a restriction on deportations to third countries. It emerged that many of the migrants sent to El Salvador had not been properly documented. A ruling on June 4 mandated that individuals exiled in this manner must be afforded legal means to contest the actions related to their deportations.
After spending three months in detention, he was repatriated to Venezuela alongside 250 others as part of a prison exchange orchestrated by Salvadoran President Naib Bukele. Additionally, the Venezuelan Attorney General has initiated an inquiry into Bukele for alleged human rights abuses in the prison system.
The complaint, lodged within the General Advisory Office of DHS, asserts that Rengel suffered significant psychological and emotional distress due to the purportedly unlawful procedures followed in his case.
“Due to the negligence and wrongful actions of various government officials, Rengel experienced a loss of freedom, forced removal from the U.S., and months spent in the inhumane Cecot facility,” the complaint claims.
In a statement, DHS Deputy Chief Tricia McLaughlin mentioned that Rengel entered the U.S. illegally in 2023 and was linked to the Tren de Aragua gang. “Tren de Aragua represents a serious threat to public safety,” she asserted, emphasizing that Rengel’s association warranted his removal.
Rengel was taken into custody by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on March 13, the day he turned 27, in Irving, Texas. He presented documentation to the ICE agent, asserting he held a legal temporary status and had an immigration appointment.
The complaint alleges that after his detention, he was denied access to a phone and was given documents in English, despite requesting Spanish translations. Although Rengel sought to speak to a judge, he was reportedly not provided that opportunity.
On March 15, Rengel was informed by ICE that he would be deported to Venezuela. It wasn’t until his arrival in El Salvador that he realized he had been misled about his destination. Meanwhile, his family had been searching for him for months without assistance from authorities.
Rengel is being represented by the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC).
“His situation serves as a crucial reminder for Americans who value the Constitution and the rule of law. We cannot allow political agendas to override legitimate processes and fundamental rights that should be guaranteed to everyone in the country,” said LULAC CEO Juan Proaño.
