Cuban Rafters’ Deportation Fate: Untangling the Legal Battle

Introduction:

This blog post delves into a legal saga surrounding a group of 19 Cuban rafters who climbed a lighthouse near the coast of Florida. Attorney Kendall Coffee, representing the defense team composed of immigration law specialists, requested a postponement of the legal proceedings. Miami-Dade federal judge, Darryl Gailes, rescheduled the hearing to determine the deportation fate of the rafters for Thursday, June 2nd. This post offers a comprehensive overview of the ongoing legal battle, incorporating information from reputable sources.

The Defense’s Request and Judge’s Decision:

Attorney Kendall Coffee, representing the defense team, requested a postponement of the legal proceedings. The defense team comprises a group of lawyers specializing in immigration issues. Miami-Dade federal judge, Darryl Gailes, granted the request and rescheduled the hearing for Thursday, June 2nd. The delay allows more time to assess the fate of the 19 Cuban rafters and whether they will be deported.

Prosecutor’s Stance and Time Constraints:

Prosecutor Dexter Lee raised no objections to the defense’s request for a postponement. However, Lee voiced concern that the Cuban rafters have been on a Coast Guard cutter since the previous Friday and cannot stay on the boat past Wednesday. This time constraint adds urgency to the legal proceedings.

Judge’s Instructions and Communication:

Judge Gailes ordered that the defense team be informed of any Coast Guard decision before taking any action. This allows the defense to stay informed and respond accordingly to the Coast Guard’s determination of the Cuban rafters’ fate.

Motion Filing and Expectations:

Ramon Saul Sanchez, president of the group Movimiento Democracia, filed the motion to determine whether the 19 Cubans qualify for entry into the United States under the Cuban Adjustment Act of 1966. Saul Sanchez expresses confidence in the upcoming hearing’s outcome, hoping for a favorable decision.

“Wet Foot/Dry Foot” Policy:

The policy commonly known as “wet foot/dry foot” applies to Cubans who reach US territory. Those reaching land can stay, while those intercepted at sea face deportation to Cuba.

Conclusion:

The legal battle surrounding the 19 Cuban rafters has taken a new turn with the postponement of the hearing. The rescheduled session on June 2nd will determine whether the individuals involved will be deported to Cuba or allowed to remain in the United States under the Cuban Adjustment Act. As the case progresses, the outcome will have significant implications for immigration policy and the fate of these individuals seeking refuge.