The wife of an active-duty U.S. Army sergeant is facing possible deportation to a third country after being detained during a routine immigration appointment in El Paso.
Detained During Immigration Interview
Deisy Fidelina Rivera Ortega was taken into custody on April 14 while attending a “Parole in Place” interview—a program meant to help undocumented family members of military personnel remain in the U.S. legally.
She is married to Sgt. 1st Class Jose Serrano, who has served 27 years and completed three deployments to Afghanistan. Serrano said the couple had followed all legal steps.
Uncertain Legal Status
Rivera Ortega, who works at Fort Bliss, holds a valid work permit through 2030 and previously received protection from deportation to her home country, El Salvador. However, she is now at risk of being removed to Mexico—a country her family says she has no ties to.
Her attorney argues she was not under a final order of removal and is entitled to challenge any deportation decision in court. She is currently being held at a detention facility in El Paso.
Family Impact
Serrano said the situation has taken a severe emotional toll, especially given his military service and ongoing health challenges. Travel restrictions could prevent him from visiting his wife if she is deported.
The case highlights growing concerns about immigration enforcement affecting military families, even those actively serving the country.
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