California Church Devastated After ICE Arrests Colombian Immigrant Jheisson Alcides Bustos-Martinez

July 7, 2025 – California: A growing wave of fear has spread through a California church and the Hispanic community after Jheisson Alcides Bustos-Martinez, an immigrant from Colombia, was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents.

The 35-year-old was on his way to work with his stepfather in Rialto, California, on the morning of June 13 when ICE agents pulled them over at 6:45 a.m., according to Pastor Juan Cervantes of Sierra Vista Baptist Church.

“Fear has gripped our community. Churches have canceled services, fearing ICE raids,” said Pastor Cervantes. “His arrest has terrified not just his family, but our entire Hispanic community.”

Bustos-Martinez Entered Legally but Overstayed Visa

According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Bustos-Martinez entered the U.S. on a B2 tourist visa in November 2017, which allowed him to stay for only six months. He allegedly overstayed his visa by more than seven years.

“He has no criminal record,” Pastor Cervantes confirmed, emphasizing Bustos-Martinez’s peaceful life in the U.S. with his wife and two young children.

The DHS insists that overstaying a visa is a violation of immigration law. Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary at DHS, said the Biden administration—along with President Trump and Secretary Noem—is working to restore integrity to the visa system.

Deportation Offer or Custody: No Middle Ground

McLaughlin added that the U.S. is offering $1,000 and a free flight for illegal immigrants who self-deport through the CBP Home App. Failure to do so could lead to mandatory deportation without the chance to return.

Bustos-Martinez’s family reported that they had no contact with him for nearly two weeks after the arrest. His wife and children are desperate for a bond hearing, which is now set for July 7.

“They are holding him to force a self-deportation,” Cervantes said. “His family is heartbroken.”

Community Seeks Help from Lawmakers

Members of the community have reached out to Senators Alex Padilla, Adam Schiff, and Congressman Pete Aguilar for support.

As the Trump administration continues its mass deportation policy, many immigrant families in California fear more early morning arrests. The White House insists that anyone living without legal status is considered a criminal under U.S. law.