Transplant Patient in ICE Custody Allegedly Not Getting Proper Meds

Family claims Rochester man is missing critical immunosuppressant doses

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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A Rochester man who recently received a kidney transplant was arrested by immigration agents and transferred to an ICE facility in El Paso, Texas. His family claims he is not receiving his necessary immunosuppressant medication consistently, raising concerns that his body could reject the donated kidney.

Why it matters

Proper medication is critical for transplant patients to prevent organ rejection. Any disruption in their medication regimen could have serious health consequences. This case highlights concerns about medical care for detainees in immigration custody.

The details

Javier Abreu-Vasquez was arrested by ICE agents in Rochester on February 5 while delivering groceries for a church group. He was then transferred to an ICE facility in El Paso. Abreu-Vasquez's family says he has told them his morning doses of immunosuppressant medication have been missed or delivered late, putting his health at risk.

  • Abreu-Vasquez was arrested by ICE agents on February 5, 2026.
  • He was transferred to an ICE facility in El Paso, Texas on February 6, 2026.

The players

Javier Abreu-Vasquez

A Rochester man who recently received a kidney transplant and is now in ICE custody in El Paso, Texas.

Kim Hicks

A Minnesota state representative and family friend of Abreu-Vasquez.

U.S. Department of Homeland Security

The federal agency overseeing ICE and responsible for Abreu-Vasquez's medical care in custody.

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What they’re saying

“Abreu-Vasquez has been receiving necessary immunosuppressant medication inconsistently, he told family members. He said his morning dosages were missed over the weekend or were delivered past noon.”

— Javier Abreu-Vasquez

“Abreu-Vasquez received his medication within hours of entering ICE custody and continues to receive proper medical care in El Paso.”

— Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs, U.S. Department of Homeland Security

What’s next

The Department of Homeland Security has stated that Abreu-Vasquez is receiving proper medical care, but his family remains concerned about the consistency of his critical immunosuppressant medication. It is unclear if any further action will be taken to address the family's concerns.

The takeaway

This case highlights the challenges transplant patients can face when detained by immigration authorities, underscoring the critical need for consistent access to life-saving medications. It raises broader questions about medical care standards and oversight for detainees in ICE custody.