Immigration enforcement actions are drawing increasing protest across Greater Cincinnati following the detention of two local men, one of whom has already been deported.
Alonzo Tomas Mendez, a 34-year-old undocumented immigrant from Guatemala, remains in ICE custody after being detained on May 31 outside a Kroger store on Warsaw Avenue. Mendez, a Cincinnati resident for over three years, is described by supporters as a husband, father of two daughters, and a man of strong faith.
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Community members rallied Tuesday outside the Department of Homeland Security in Blue Ash, demanding Mendez’s release on bond as he awaits a master hearing before an immigration judge.
“Let’s not allow mothers and fathers to suddenly disappear…with no opportunity to defend themselves,” said former Vineyard Community Church Pastor Dave Workman.
Mendez’s supporters say he was simply picking up birthday party supplies when detained. He is currently held in Butler County Jail on an ICE detainer.
Meanwhile, Emerson Colindres, a 19-year-old soccer player from Honduras, who was arrested alongside Mendez, has already been deported despite ongoing protests. Butler County Sheriff Richard Jones confirmed his department transported Colindres to an Ohio airport for removal.
“He went through the court process. The law is the law,” said Jones. “It’s sad this country has allowed this to take place.”
Sheriff Jones also warned of rising tensions, predicting “a long summer” filled with “anger, more protests and riots.”
Community leaders are calling for compassion, noting that undocumented immigrants like Mendez are contributing members of society. “These are our neighbors…they’re good people,” said Price Hill resident Don Driehaus.
The situation underscores the deepening national divide over immigration enforcement, as families and communities grapple with the human impact of federal policies.
