A Green Card holder in Chicago faced a tense encounter with immigration officers after being fined $130 for not carrying his proof of residency. The incident has sparked concern among legal residents about strict document enforcement.
ICE Officers Stop Chicago Resident
Rubén Antonio Cruz, a 60-year-old Chicago resident, was sitting with a friend near Clark Street and Lunt Avenue when ICE agents approached him. When asked for identification, he explained that his Green Card was at home.
Database Check Fails to Prevent Fine
Even after verifying Cruz’s legal status in their database, officers placed him in their vehicle, questioned him, and later issued a $130 fine. The incident left him visibly shaken, especially given his existing heart condition and modest living situation.
Law Requires Green Card at All Times
Federal law mandates that permanent residents carry their Green Card at all times. While this rule has long existed, experts say it is rarely enforced. The fine against Cruz has alarmed many residents who fear similar treatment.
Growing Concerns Over Enforcement Tactics
The case points to an aggressive shift in enforcement by ICE and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Reports of public confrontations and document checks are rising, increasing anxiety among immigrant communities.
A Warning for Green Card Holders
For many, Cruz’s experience serves as a warning to always carry proof of residency, even during short outings. The fine underscores how easily a routine day can turn stressful under tightened immigration oversight.
