Judge Bars Deportation of Man Shot in ICE Operation

A federal judge has barred the deportation of Oscar Bergal while his challenge to his detention is pending, and restricted where federal authorities may transfer him without court approval. The order followed an ICE operation in New York City in which an agent shot Bergal, who was taken to a hospital and remains in federal custody, according to reports. U.S. District Judge J. Paul Oetken ruled that Bergal, identified by law enforcement as Oscar Belgal, cannot be removed from the United States without court approval while his petition is pending. The order also prohibits transferring him to a facility outside the Southern or Eastern Districts of New York or the District of New Jersey without prior approval. The ruling does not require Bergal’s release. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin said Friday that Bergal had been moved out of New York. Oetken directed the government to explain where Bergal was being held and where he was when the petition was filed. The reports do not establish his current location or whether any move complied with the order. Bergal’s attorneys filed an emergency petition challenging his detention.