PINAL COUNTY, Ariz. – A 32-year-old Mexican national died while in the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at a facility in Florence, Arizona, on August 31. lorenzo Antonio batrez Vargas was transported to Mountain Vista Medical Center before his death, according to ICE.
This incident adds to a growing number of deaths within ICE detention centers, raising concerns about conditions of confinement and access to adequate medical care for detainees. An official cause of death remains undetermined,and a complete report is anticipated within 90 days,potentially sparking further scrutiny of ICE protocols.
Batrez Vargas was initially arrested in Flagstaff in March 2018 for driving under the influence, resulting in a 10-day sentence. He was later taken into ICE custody following a second arrest in August of this year on suspicion of possessing drug paraphernalia.
ICE has stated they will fully cooperate with any inquiry into the circumstances surrounding Batrez Vargas’ death. The agency’s statement can be found here: https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/mexican-national-ice-custody-passes-away-central-arizona-correctional-complex.