about services provided by his ….
about services provided by his business.”
The complaint alleges that Orozco was observed through one of the office windows yelling threats and obscenities at the agents and says that he was “observed in the rearview mirror carrying a 2x6 section of lumber,” which he then allegedly hurled in the direction of the agent’s vehicle.
Roosevelt County Sheriff Jason Frederick told this newspaper that Orozco was taken from the Roosevelt County Detention Center by Border Patrol agents in violation of an agreement between Frederick and that agency. Frederick negotiated Orozco’s surrender Jan. 25, saying, “The man posed no danger to the community,” stressing that Orozco and his family have been productive local residents for over a decade.
“We just want to find a way to keep Roberto here, for him and his family, most importantly, but also for our community,” said Laurie Young, Froid resident and town council member. “Not just because of the work he provides but because he has become family to many of us. That’s what small towns provide. We all look out for each other because we truly care for one another. We know it might take a miracle, but we’ll keep trying for a legal way to make this work.”
One possible route for Orozco’s return to Froid may be a Order of Supervision. An OSUP is issued by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to allow certain immigrants to remain in the U.S. temporarily, under strict conditions, while a final order of removal is pending. Instead of remaining in a detention center, the individual is released – but they must regularly check in with ICE and follow specific terms.
Community members have been attempting to reach out to Montana’s congregational delegation, including U.S. Rep. Troy Downing, asking for support in the form of a OSUP provision.
Nordlund said that supporters are hoping Orozco will qualify for an OSUP. “We are working as hard as we can to bring attention to this issue and get him an OSUP provision,” Nordlund said. “We have and will continue to call our elected leaders in hopes of them helping our small community.”
Downing’s communications director Beau Brooks responded to NPI’s request for comment on Feb. 2: “Congressman Downing and his staff are aware of the charges against Mr. Orozco-Ramirez and welcome continued input from the community regarding the matter. The office reserves further comment so as not to obstruct due process or ongoing legal proceedings.”
To contact Downing, call 202-225-3211 or 406-413-6720 or visit downing.house.gov/ contact.
