Two North Syracuse hospital workers granted bail after months in detention

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Two SUNY Upstate Medical University workers from North Syracuse, who built their lives and careers in Syracuse, have been granted bail after four months in federal immigration detention. The married couple from Cuba, facing possible deportation to Ecuador, are appealing their case while local unions, advocates, and neighbors rally to help with bond, legal fees, and pressure on lawmakers.

Why it matters

This case highlights the challenges faced by immigrant workers in the U.S. who have established lives and careers, but remain vulnerable to deportation proceedings. The community's efforts to support the couple demonstrate the importance of advocating for immigrant rights and keeping families together.

The details

The two SUNY Upstate Medical University workers, a married couple from Cuba, were held in federal immigration detention for four months before being granted bail. They are now appealing their case to avoid deportation to Ecuador, where they have limited ties. Local unions, advocates, and neighbors have rallied to help the couple with bond, legal fees, and by putting pressure on lawmakers.

• The couple has been held in federal immigration detention since October 2025.
• They were granted bail in February 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow the couple out on bail.