Key facts
- José Mejía Hernandez was arrested by ICE agents in Arlington, Virginia on August 11.
- He was hospitalized with a brain injury and severe bruising, diagnosed with mild TBI and a subarachnoid bleed.
- His lawyers allege agents used violent tactics without justification.
- DHS stated necessary force was used because Mejía Hernandez attempted to flee.
- DHS disputed claims that Mejía Hernandez was unconscious during the arrest.
- Local officials, including a congressman and prosecutor, have called for an investigation.
A man in Virginia was hospitalized with a brain injury and severe bruising after being arrested by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, according to his lawyers. José Mejía Hernandez, 45, was walking to a bus stop in Arlington on August 11 when agents pursued and apprehended him. Mejía Hernandez recalls being hit by a stun gun and waking up hours later in the hospital, where he was diagnosed with a mild traumatic brain injury and a subarachnoid bleed.
His lawyers shared photos and medical records showing extensive bruising on his face, hands, chest, and back. They allege that ICE agents used violent tactics without justification, questioning the necessity of force for someone attempting to evade arrest. Mejía Hernandez was transferred to an ICE office with an ankle monitor and later returned to the hospital due to worsening symptoms, facing delays in obtaining an MRI due to the monitor.
A Department of Homeland Security (DHS) spokesperson confirmed the stop, stating that Mejía Hernandez attempted to flee, requiring necessary force. DHS disputed claims of unconsciousness, asserting he was responsive after evading arrest and received aid. The agency also noted Mejía Hernandez is from Mexico and in the country without authorization, currently in removal proceedings.
Virginia Congressman Don Beyer and Arlington prosecutor Parisa Dehghani-Tafti have expressed deep concern over the incident and called for thorough investigations. Beyer cited reports of other instances of alleged unjustified violence by ICE agents in northern Virginia. DHS criticized Beyer's stance, accusing him of smearing law enforcement.