Roberto Itzep-Caba, an 18-year-old student at Georgia’s Toombs County High School, was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on August 8 after being stopped during a routine traffic stop for failing to stop completely at a stop sign, according to his girlfriend.
According to ABC 22 and a GoFundMe established on his behalf, the incident occurred on his second day of school while he was driving to campus after dropping his mother off at work, a routine he had followed for years without any problems.
Why It Matters
As part of his campaign promise of mass deportations, President Donald Trump has ordered his administration to deport millions of unauthorized immigrants. Immigrants with valid visas and green cards have also been held in recent months, in addition to those without legal status.
Due to accusations of wrongdoing, immigration enforcement has come under increased scrutiny. Critics contend that ICE is at the center of the national discussion on immigration policy because of its practices, which create ethical and legal questions.
What To Know
At the age of four, Itzep-Caba and his family left Guatemala, and he has spent the last fourteen years residing in Toombs County.
As a standout student-athlete, he competed in cross-country, started on the high school soccer team, and helped guide Toombs County High School to its first-ever State Championship soccer victory in 2024.
His fiancée, Maritza Zamorano, who started the GoFundMe campaign to pay for his legal bills, claims that Itzep-Caba has no criminal history and is well-known for his commitment, initiative, and cooperation. He comes from a close-knit family that includes two sisters, a brother, and an impending sibling.
With the help of 336 community donations, the fundraising campaign has raised $13,358 as of Saturday afternoon, out of its $15,000 target. All of the money will go toward hiring a lawyer to help get him released and back home.
What People Are Saying
Zamorano detailed the August 8 events on the fundraiser page:After leaving his mother off at work, Roberto was stopped on his way to school. He was handcuffed and arrested in front of other pupils after failing to stop completely at a stop sign. This is the first time Roberto has ever been pulled over. He received neither warning nor a chance. He has made significant contributions to both his community and school.
She went on to say: Roberto is currently in jail on an immigration detention, not in class or on the field. Where he will be taken next is unknown to his family. He needs to return home because he has two sisters, a brother, and a new sibling on the way. Since this is the only house he has ever known, he should have the same opportunity to live and develop here as the rest of us. The funds raised will be used to assist Roberto in getting back home.
What Happens Next?
Although the family is collaborating closely with lawyers to manage the intricate immigration procedure, they are still unsure about Itzep-Caba’s potential transfer location and the length of his detention.
Obtaining the required legal assistance through community fundraising initiatives is currently their top priority.
