Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Demands Release of Man Struck by ICE Vehicle
The judge cites restricted legal access and medical barriers for Miguel Parra Hernandez, who remains in rehabilitation after the October incident.
By Paula Delgado ·
Federal immigration enforcement actions in Houston have drawn sharp local criticism following an injury to a resident. Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo demanded the immediate release of Miguel Parra Hernandez on Thursday, arguing that his current detention conditions hinder his recovery and legal defense.
Parra Hernandez was struck by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement vehicle on Oct. 10. He suffered a broken leg and underwent surgery at a local hospital before being transferred to a rehabilitation facility. He remains there now, according to the judge's office.
Hidalgo joined attorney Kim Bruno and FIEL Executive Director Cesar Espinosa for a press conference. Representatives from the offices of U.S. Reps. Sylvia Garcia and Lizzie Fletcher also attended. The group outlined specific grievances regarding Parra Hernandez's treatment since the collision.
The judge stated that Parra Hernandez cannot see his attorney without security personnel present in the room. His lawyer has also been barred from bringing documents and restricted to specific visiting hours. Hidalgo noted that facility staff have threatened to end family visitation if arbitrary rules are broken. They have confiscated home-cooked food and told the family to leave on previous occasions.
Medical access remains a point of contention. Hidalgo said Parra Hernandez suffers from both physical and mental pain but lacks the resources to recover properly. Security agents remain in the room during his sessions with psychological professionals, limiting his privacy.
ICE officer Mario Alberto Morales faces an indictment for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Under Texas law, this is a second-degree felony carrying a prison sentence of two to 20 years. Defense attorney David Lindenmuth argued that the crash was an accident. He said Morales was closing distance with a fleeing individual and had to make evasive maneuvers to avoid hitting another vehicle.
Lindenmuth described the event as a man deciding he did not want to be detained during a lawful stop. "That is an accident. It is not a crime," Lindenmuth said. The agency previously called the incident a political stunt by Houston sanctuary politicians.
Hidalgo characterized Parra Hernandez as a victim and a key witness in the investigation into Morales. She called for his release so he can serve as an asset to the case. The next step involves the judge's office continuing to advocate for his rights while he recovers in the rehabilitation facility.
