1. United States
2. Pa.
3. Letter

I am writing to urgently request your immediate intervention in the case of Carlos Della Valle, a longtime Downingtown resident currently held in immigration detention in Louisiana. This situation demands your prompt attention and action. Carlos has been an integral part of our Chester County community since 1997. For over 25 years, he has lived an exemplary life here, working diligently, paying taxes, and raising a family with his wife Angela and their son Alessandro. His detention has left a void in our community and devastated his family. The circumstances of Carlos's case are compelling and deserve careful consideration. As a teenager, he fled cartel violence in Mexico, seeking safety in the United States. At 19, he signed a document agreeing not to return to the U.S., but it's crucial to note that he allegedly did not understand its contents due to a lack of translation. While he did re-enter the country, he has since built an honest and productive life in Chester County. The strong community support for Carlos is evident. Over 100 people recently attended a bilingual rally and vigil at Valley Forge Presbyterian Church in King of Prussia, following a similar event in Downingtown. This outpouring of support demonstrates the positive impact Carlos has had on our community. Pastor Jason Gill, a friend of the Della Valles, has emphasized Carlos's importance to our community. The fact that these events are conducted bilingually underscores the cultural richness Carlos brings to our area. I urge you to use your influence to secure Carlos Della Valle's immediate release from detention. His continued incarceration serves no public interest and instead deprives our community of a valued member. Please also consider initiating or supporting legislation that would provide a path to legal status for long-term residents like Carlos who have demonstrated their commitment to their communities. Time is of the essence. Every day Carlos remains in detention is another day his family suffers and our community is diminished. I respectfully request that you take action on this matter without delay and provide an update on your efforts to address this urgent situation.