Overview
- Judge Eva S. Saltzman granted bond after finding nothing in the record indicating danger, citing strong family and community ties, minimal traffic history, and eligibility to apply for cancellation of removal.
- Ruben Torres Maldonado was released on Oct. 30 and reunited with his daughter and family after roughly two weeks in federal custody.
- U.S. District Judge Jeremy Daniel had ruled the detention unlawful and ordered a prompt bond hearing that led to Thursday’s decision.
- The Department of Homeland Security alleges habitual driving offenses and says he backed into a government vehicle during the arrest, while the judge noted no public-safety risk and Torres Maldonado said he has a valid license and insurance.
- His attorneys plan to seek cancellation of removal and permanent residency as his deportation case continues, with the case drawing attention to aggressive Chicago-area enforcement operations facing legal challenges.