Father Taken by Federal Agents Outside Pomona Business Released from Custody

[Tags: immigration, ICE, Pomona, undocumented immigrants, family rights, small business, legal process]

Family Speaks Out After Father’s Release

A father who was detained by federal agents outside his barber shop in Pomona has been released, according to his family. Martin Majin-Leon, 58, spoke publicly for the first time since being taken into federal custody, revealing that he was held for more than 30 hours before being released.

At a press conference, Martin shared that his detainment stemmed from a decades-old immigration issue. Through a statement translated by his son, Miguel Majin, Martin emphasized his cooperation with the legal system and his commitment to remain in the U.S. with his family.

Surveillance Footage Sparks Outcry

Surveillance video from Tuesday morning shows Martin arriving at his shop before being taken away at gunpoint by federal agents. Initially, his family feared a medical emergency when he didn’t open the barber shop on time.

Miguel, who works next door, became alarmed when his father didn’t respond to calls and the shop remained closed. Checking the security footage revealed the shocking moment federal agents detained Martin.

Confusion and Desperation During Detainment

After the arrest, the Majin family spent hours calling local authorities, ICE, and Border Patrol to locate Martin, receiving no answers. Eventually, the Mexican Consulate informed them that he was being held in Calexico.

Miguel recounted the family’s distress and emphasized their father’s long-standing role in the Pomona community. Martin and his wife, Rosalba, have operated their barber shop for over 20 years and raised seven children in the area.

Past Deportation and Speculated Tip-Off

Martin originally came to the U.S. in 1987 without documentation. He was deported in 2009 after a green card denial but returned in 2012, continuing to live and work peacefully in Pomona.

The family suspects that Martin’s recent attempt to renew his driver’s license triggered the detainment, believing the DMV may have shared his updated address with federal authorities.

A Plea for Justice and Compassion

Martin expressed his gratitude for the support his family received and reaffirmed his dedication to legal compliance and community service.

“This isn’t just about me,” he said. “It’s about how we treat the people who make up our neighborhoods — people who contribute, who work hard, and who deserve respect.”

The Majin family has requested privacy as they navigate the next steps of the legal process, noting they may share more details once they consult further with legal counsel.