Monday, 21 Apr 2025

Drunk immigrant killed 7 year old months after he was released from ICE detainer

Seven-year-old Ivory Smith was killed by Venezuelan migrant Joel Enrique Gonzalez Chacin in a late-night drunk driving accident in north Houston just two and a half months after ICE released a hold against him, court documents revealed.


Drunk immigrant killed 7 year old months after he was released from ICE detainer
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The felony assault charge against him ended up being dropped to a misdemeanor and, after pleading guilty, Chacin was sentenced to 113 days in jail, which he had already served, and was released that same day. The ICE detainer against him was also lifted that same day for an unknown reason. 

Fox News Digital reached out to ICE to find out why the detainer against Chacin was lifted and has not yet heard back.

Ivory was in second grade. According to a statement released by the family, the mother continues to "endure immense physical and emotional pain" from the accident.  

"No parent should have to suffer the unbearable loss of a child, especially under circumstances that could and should have been prevented," said the family, adding, the incident is a "stark reminder that we need stronger accountability and justice to prevent further suffering for families like ours."  

Speaking of Ivory, the family said, "Her life, filled with innocence and joy, was taken far too soon due to the reckless actions of an individual who chose to drive under the influence."

"We will continue to demand answers and advocate for change so that no other family has to endure the pain, loss, and injustice that we are experiencing," they said. "Ivory's light and legacy deserve better, and her memory will guide us as we work toward a safer future for all."

Sarah Rumpf-Whitten contributed to this report. 

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