Key Takeaways from Felipe’s Deportation That Every International Student Should Know
May 1, 2025
In a troubling case that highlights the growing risks faced by international students, Felipe Zapata Velásquez—a 27-year-old student at the University of Florida—was recently arrested by Gainesville police and quickly deported to Colombia. His story raises serious concerns about student visa enforcement, cooperation between local police and immigration authorities, and the importance of knowing your legal rights in the U.S.
LaToya McBean Pompy, who immigrated to the United States herself, was inspired to help families unite by founding McBean Law, a New York immigration law firm. If you or a loved one needs assistance with denaturalization issues or visa applications, don’t hesitate to reach out to us today. You can contact us here or call (914) 898-9488 to schedule a private consultation with LaToya and her team of experienced immigration attorneys, who are ready to guide you through every step of the process.
The Arrest and Deportation
Felipe was pulled over by Gainesville Police for driving with a suspended license—his second such offense. During the stop, he told the officers he was an international student at the University of Florida, here under an F-1 visa. Despite this, he was arrested, and just three days later, handed over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). ICE claimed that Felipe wasn’t enrolled in the SEVIS system (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System), though the University of Florida confirmed he was indeed a registered student attending classes.
Once in ICE custody, Felipe was reportedly pressured into signing voluntary departure papers. His mother, Claudia Velásquez, says he felt forced to sign these documents and has since returned to Colombia.
What Went Wrong?
Felipe’s situation unraveled quickly—from traffic stop to deportation in just over a week. Although his F-1 status appeared to be valid, discrepancies in ICE’s system, combined with local law enforcement’s cooperation with immigration authorities, led to his removal.
Key Takeaways for International Students
Knowing your rights and taking preventive steps can help protect you from similar outcomes. Whether you’re a student, worker, or green card holder, these key takeaways are essential for safeguarding your future in the U.S.
1. Don’t Drive with a Suspended License
Driving without a valid license or with a suspended one can have severe consequences for non-citizens. In states like Florida, local law enforcement works closely with ICE, increasing the risk of detention and deportation for even minor offenses.
2. Always Carry Proof of Legal Status
Whether it’s a green card, work permit, student visa approval notice, or receipt for pending immigration applications, you should always carry documentation showing you are lawfully present in the U.S.
3. Don’t Sign Anything Without Legal Advice
If detained by ICE, do not sign voluntary departure or any other paperwork without first speaking to an experienced immigration attorney. Many individuals feel pressured to sign documents without fully understanding the consequences.
4. Know Your Rights
You have Miranda rights: the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, and the right not to self-incriminate. Even in ICE custody, you maintain due process protections, including the right to appear before an immigration judge.
5. Beware of Fast-Tracked Deportations
If you feel ICE is rushing your removal, take a moment to speak with an attorney. Fast-tracked deportations can bypass critical legal protections and due process.
Watch Attorney LaToya McBean Pompy’s YouTube video, “Foreign Student CRACKDOWN: Immigration Attorney Explains a Real-Life Case,” for an in-depth look at the urgent challenges facing international students in the U.S.
