Immigrant advocacy groups in Houston are expressing their support for the indictment of ICE agent Mario Alberto Morales, who has been charged following a serious incident that occurred on October 10, which left Miguel Parra-Hernandez severely injured. Organizations such as FIEL and the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) view this development as a crucial move towards accountability, yet they are also advocating for the immediate release of Parra-Hernandez and potential witnesses from ICE custody.
Parra-Hernandez’s attorney has reported that he is currently unable to walk and is facing significant physical and emotional challenges while remaining in ICE detention. The collision, which occurred during an immigration enforcement operation in northwest Harris County, has raised serious questions about the conduct of federal immigration officers.
On Friday, a Harris County grand jury indicted Morales on a second-degree felony charge of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, following an investigation by the Harris County Sheriff’s Office. The District Attorney, Sean Teare, revealed this charge during a news conference, where he showcased surveillance footage that corroborated the claims made against Morales.
Prosecutors allege that Morales intentionally drove his Jeep Grand Cherokee into Parra-Hernandez after pursuing another vehicle. Parra-Hernandez suffered severe leg injuries and has undergone surgery, yet he remains in custody as immigration proceedings continue.
In response to the indictment, FIEL Executive Director Cesar Espinosa emphasized the necessity of accountability for federal officers, stating, “Nobody is above the law.” He urged that while the indictment is a step forward, the legal process must continue to hold Morales accountable.
Parra-Hernandez’s attorney, Kim Bruno, highlighted the ongoing physical and psychological struggles her client faces while being under constant supervision in ICE custody. She shared that he has suffered fractures, nerve damage, and chronic pain, and is currently uncertain if he will ever regain the ability to walk independently.
Bruno also mentioned that the monitoring conditions during his recovery hinder his ability to have private conversations with medical professionals, exacerbating his emotional distress.
During a press conference, Parra-Hernandez’s brother, Rodolfo Parra, expressed gratitude for community support and called for his brother’s release to facilitate his recovery.
Espinosa described the indictment as a significant milestone for immigrant families advocating for greater accountability from federal immigration authorities. He firmly rejected any claims that the indictment is politically motivated, stating, “This is not political. This is our lives.”
In addition to their demands for accountability regarding Morales, FIEL is also calling for the release of other individuals detained during the immigration operation, arguing that their continued detention could impede the investigation.
Teare has raised concerns regarding the deportation of potential witnesses, alleging that at least two witnesses were removed from the country despite objections from prosecutors. This situation raises further questions about the integrity and transparency of the investigation.
As the case progresses, advocates remain focused on securing Parra-Hernandez’s release and ensuring that all individuals involved can participate in the investigation without fear of repercussions concerning their immigration status. Morales is anticipated to surrender to authorities on November 2, as the legal proceedings move forward.
Both FIEL and LULAC view the indictment as a critical step towards accountability, yet they acknowledge that the broader fight for transparency and public safety continues.
