Community Outraged as Graduating Student Detained by ICE

Meriden Community Rallies Behind Graduating Student Detained by ICE Meriden, CT – The Maloney High School graduation ceremony on Tuesday night was marked by a poignant absence. Kevin, a graduating senior, was not present to receive his diploma, having been detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials the previous week along with his father. Despite his absence, his name was called during the ceremony, prompting an emotional response from the assembled crowd. The family's detainment followed a scheduled check-in with ICE, according to officials. They are currently being held in Texas. News of Kevin's detainment has sparked outrage among Meriden residents and immigration advocates. Many feel the timing of the detainment, so close to graduation, was particularly cruel. "It's heartbreaking," said Maria Garcia, a Meriden resident who attended the ceremony. "Kevin is a bright young man who deserves to be celebrating with his classmates. This is a tragedy that highlights the human cost of our immigration policies." The incident has renewed calls for immigration reform and has brought the issue of family separation sharply into focus. The community is rallying behind Kevin and his family, offering support and demanding his release. The ceremony, while bittersweet, became a symbol of community resilience and the fight for justice.