Andry Hernández Romero, a gay makeup artist from Venezuela, has been released from a Salvadoran prison as part of a prisoner swap, but is now being returned to Venezuela. Hernández Romero had sought asylum in the United States in 2024, citing a need to escape anti-LGBTQ+ violence in his home country. He reportedly entered the U.S. legally and passed a credible fear interview, a crucial step in the asylum process. However, he was subsequently deported by the Trump administration after attending an appointment arranged by the U.S. government. Officials accused him of having gang ties, an accusation his attorneys deny, stating he has no criminal record. Hernández Romero had been detained in El Salvador's CECOT prison since March, a facility known for its harsh and inhumane conditions, including reports of anti-LGBTQ+ violence.
Gay makeup artist Andry Hernández Romero, who was deported to a prison in El Salvador, has been released as part of a prisoner swap.
