Joaquin Castro Calls for Release of Detained Mother of San Antonio Student

Representative Joaquin Castro is calling on ICE to immediately release the mother of a San Antonio student and U.S. Naval Academy midshipman, David Garcia, who was detained during a green card interview.

David Garcia had just begun his time as a midshipman at the U.S. Naval Academy when his family found itself dealing with an unexpected immigration detention.

Garcia's mother, Maria Rocio Rocha, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on August 25, 2026, while attending a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services office for a green card interview. She was later transferred to Dilley Immigration Processing Center, which Castro referred to as the "Dilley Trailer Prison."

Rep. Castro, who represents Texas' 20th Congressional District, nominated Garcia to the Naval Academy earlier this year, citing his academic excellence and commitment to service.

"Earlier this year, I proudly nominated David Garcia to the U.S. Naval Academy because of his academic excellence and commitment to service. He began as a midshipman this summer," said Rep. Castro.

According to Castro, Rocha had been granted parole in place and was attending her green card interview when ICE detained her.

"Right now, his mother, Maria, is locked away at the Dilley Trailer Prison. ICE took her when she showed up for her green card interview. She was doing everything the right way," said Castro.

Castro is scheduled to visit Dilley for the ninth time this year alongside the ICE Congressional team. He said he has been in contact with ICE regarding Rocha's case and hopes to see her during his visit, though privacy and permission forms were still being finalized.

During an appearance on Democracy Now!, Castro called again for Rocha's immediate release and criticized the administration's immigration policies.

"The Trump Administration is targeting military families and leaving a dark stain on our nation," said Castro.

Castro argues that the detainment of Rocha represents what he considers unjust treatment of a military family.