JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A union representing education support staff in St. Johns County says a public school custodian was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement while heading to work last week, separating him from his family.
The St. Johns Educational Support Professional Association said it learned that Leonel Armando Bolivar Linares was detained by ICE officers on Aug. 6 while on his way to work. The union described him as “a dedicated custodian in our public schools” and urged members to share his story and contact ICE.
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In a statement provided to News4JAX, a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson said Bolivar Linares, “an illegal alien of Venezuela,” was arrested by ICE officers in Jacksonville during targeted operations on Aug. 6.
The spokesperson said Bolivar Linares entered the United States lawfully through Miami International Airport on Feb. 3, 2023, and that the U.S. Supreme Court upheld the termination of the 2023 Venezuela Temporary Protected Status designation.
“Bolivar does not have legal authorization to remain in the United States and will remain in ICE custody for immigration proceedings,” the spokesperson said.
The union said Bolivar Linares has no criminal record and was seeking asylum with a valid work permit, with additional paperwork pending.
It was not immediately clear what the specific immigration charges are in his case, whether he has legal representation or where he is being held.
The family has said Bolivar Linares is being held at a detention center in Jacksonville as they work to secure legal help. His mother, Diana Linares, said he has been struggling while in custody.
“I feel very sad because my son is going through something he doesn’t deserve. He’s a super hard-working boy. Anyone at the school can vouch for that; he’s a responsible young man,” she said. “...today, when he called me to ask for strength, to have faith, that there are many people out there working so that we can get him out of there and he can continue working and getting ahead in this country, it hurts us... Every day is harder.”
Bolivar Linares’ family has also set up a GoFundMe to raise money for bond, an immigration attorney and other legal costs, according to the fundraiser description. The campaign is organized by Eliana Bolívar Rodríguez and, as of Aug. 9, had raised over $2,000 of a $20,000 goal.
What we know
- Union account: Detained Aug. 6 while traveling to work; union says he has no criminal record and had a valid work permit while seeking asylum.
- DHS/ICE account: Arrested Aug. 6 in Jacksonville during targeted operations; entered lawfully Feb. 3, 2023; DHS says he lacks authorization to remain and will stay in custody for immigration proceedings.
What we’re still working to confirm.
- The status of any asylum application and work authorization.
- Whether any court hearing date has been set.
News4JAX has reached out to ICE, the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office, and the St. Johns County School District for comment and is awaiting responses.