Death of Detainee in ICE Custody Raises Concerns over Medical Care
A man who spent his formative years in Flagstaff has passed away while under the watch of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). His family has voiced concerns regarding the adequacy of medical treatment he received during his detention.
Lorenzo Antonio Batrez Vargas, aged 32, died at Mountain Vista Medical Center in Mesa on a recent Sunday morning, as confirmed by ICE. The exact cause of his death remains a mystery and is currently under investigation.
According to a press release, ICE assures that detainees are provided with comprehensive medical care and have access to 24-hour emergency services.
However, Batrez Vargas’ family has shared a different perspective on GoFundMe, asserting that he did not receive necessary medical attention while in custody. They suspect that complications arising from COVID-19 may have contributed to his death.
Batrez Vargas, a Mexican national, had been held at the Central Arizona Correctional Complex in Florence since early August. His detention followed a guilty plea for fleeing law enforcement and possession of a controlled substance.
Coconino County Supervisor Jeronimo Vasquez noted that Batrez Vargas was a Flagstaff resident, having attended Killip Elementary School during his childhood.
This case adds to the tally of at least 11 individuals who have died in ICE custody nationwide this year, amidst the broader immigration enforcement measures of the Trump administration.
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