- United States
- Md.
- Letter
An Open Letter
To: Sen. Van Hollen, Sen. Alsobrooks, Rep. Hoyer
From: A constituent in North Beach, MD
July 24
Urgent Request for Medical Care Review and Congressional Oversight for Detained Veteran in ICE Custody I am writing as a U.S. veteran to request your prompt attention to the case of Gulf War-era Navy veteran Arturo Quinonez Solis, who is currently detained at Camp East Montana at Fort Bliss. As veterans and Members of Congress, we share an oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States. This includes ensuring that constitutional protections, due process, and appropriate standards of care are upheld. When credible concerns arise regarding the treatment of individuals in federal custody—particularly veterans—Congress has an important oversight role to ensure that applicable laws and policies are being followed. Mr. Quinonez Solis recently underwent surgery to implant a defibrillator after his heart function declined to approximately 30 percent. He has been prescribed multiple medications for his cardiac condition, PTSD, and other service-connected health issues. According to his family and legal representatives, ICE has had possession of his prescribed medications since his detention on July 18 but has not provided them to him. It is further reported that he has received only Tylenol and aspirin despite his medical condition. He also requires continuous cardiac monitoring; however, it has been reported that he has not been provided access to the monitoring equipment prescribed by his physicians. His family indicates that his condition has deteriorated, raising concerns about whether he is receiving appropriate medical care while in federal custody. If accurate, these reports warrant careful review to ensure compliance with medical standards and legal obligations. Additionally, Mr. Quinonez Solis and his legal team are pursuing a claim that he acquired U.S. citizenship at birth through his U.S. citizen father. It is important that this claim be fully reviewed and adjudicated prior to any removal action. Given these circumstances, I respectfully request that your office: • Urge ICE to provide Mr. Quinonez Solis with all prescribed medications and necessary cardiac monitoring equipment without delay. • Request an independent medical evaluation to assess whether he is medically fit for continued detention or transport. • Urge DHS and USCIS to pause any deportation proceedings until his citizenship claim has been fully reviewed and adjudicated. • Conduct appropriate congressional oversight into this case and the treatment of medically vulnerable veterans in ICE custody. • Review whether applicable federal laws, constitutional protections, and agency policies are being followed, and ensure accountability if deficiencies are identified. • Request a briefing from DHS regarding this case and broader policies concerning the care of medically vulnerable individuals in federal detention. This matter raises important questions regarding the treatment of veterans in federal custody, the provision of necessary medical care, and the protection of due process. I respectfully request a response outlining any actions your office intends to take.
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