Judge Dismisses Deportation Case for Father of 3 Marines

An immigration judge in Los Angeles has dismissed the deportation case against Narciso Barranco, a 49-year-old landscaper and father of three U.S. Marines, clearing the way for him to pursue legal permanent residency in the United States. The ruling came after Barranco's arrest last June in Santa Ana, California, which drew public attention amid broader immigration enforcement efforts.

Barranco, who arrived in the U.S. from Mexico in the 1990s without legal status, was detained by federal agents outside an IHOP restaurant in Orange County while clearing weeds as part of his landscaping work. Videos captured by witnesses showed agents struggling with him and pinning him to the ground. He was then transferred to a Los Angeles detention center and entered deportation proceedings. In July, Barranco was released on a $3,000 bond and required to wear an ankle monitor while reporting regularly to immigration officials.

On January 28, Immigration Judge Kristin S. Piepmeier terminated the case, citing evidence that Barranco is the father of three U.S.-born sons serving or who have served in the U.S. Marine Corps. This family connection qualifies him to apply for Parole in Place, a...