In an apparent case of racial profiling in December 2018, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) wrongfully detained and held Michigan-born Jilmar Ramos-Gomez. The young veteran pleaded guilty to trespassing the month prior and was released to ICE custody by Grand Rapids Police Department after his arrest. Now, according to NBC News, that city in his home state must pay a settlement to resolve a Michigan Department of Civil Rights complaint.
The initial email thread discussing Ramos-Gomez’s case last year included the word “loco” in the subject line, referring to the vet as crazy. Additionally, records show the veteran had his passport on him at the time of his arrest, proving he’s a citizen. Details like the aforementioned raise concerns on the validity of the police department’s claim that the arrest wasn’t discriminatory.
The American Civil Liberties Union of Michigan and Michigan Immigrant Rights Center filed a civil rights complaint in April, referencing the state’s Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act, which prohibits discriminatory practices.
Now, after a unanimous decision by the The City Commission, Grand Rapids is required to pay Ramos-Gomez $190,000 in a settlement.