Jesus Molina-Veya, a 45-year-old Mexican citizen detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), died at Phoebe Sumter Hospital in Americus on June 7. The cause of death is currently under investigation.
Earlier that day, staff noticed detainees gathered outside Molina-Veya's cell. Upon inspection, he was found unconscious with a ligature around his neck. Health services staff attempted CPR until paramedics arrived to transport him to the hospital.
Molina-Veya had entered the U.S. without admission or parole multiple times. He was first encountered by the United States Border Patrol near San Ysidro, California, on April 19, 1999, and removed to Mexico the following day. Despite repeated removals by USBP and Enforcement and Removal Operations Atlanta, he continued to re-enter unlawfully and faced numerous arrests for offenses including furnishing alcohol to minors, simple battery, DUI, drug possession, driving without a valid license, child molestation, hit and run, and possession of controlled substances. His latest arrest occurred on February 28, 2025, for probation violation and other offenses leading to a conviction on April 3.
In line with ICE policy, ERO Atlanta informed the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the Office of Inspector General, and the ICE Office of Professional Responsibility through the Integrity Coordination Center about Molina-Veya’s death. They also notified the Consulate of Mexico in Atlanta.
ICE issues official notifications to Congress and stakeholders upon reporting a detainee's death and posts relevant details on its public website within two business days as per agency policy. Reports are accessible in the ICE.gov Newsroom and must be made public within 90 days according to congressional requirements outlined in the DHS Appropriations Bill of 2018.
ICE states its commitment to providing safe environments for those in custody with comprehensive medical care from arrival throughout their stay. Detainees receive medical screenings within 12 hours of arrival at detention facilities and full health assessments within 14 days. Access to medical appointments and emergency care is available at all times during detention.
