Foota Hype still in custody – Moved to new detention centre in Florida

Some 90 days after being detained by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), popular selector, Oniel ‘Foot Hype’ Thomas, remains in custody. He was originally in detention at the Krome Service Processing Center, an immigration facility in Miami, but the ICE website on Sunday showed him being held at the Broward Transitional Center (BTC). It is not clear when the transfer took place.

Located in Pompano Beach, Florida, BTC is an ICE facility designated to hold alleged illegal immigrants classified as “non-criminal and low security detainees.” The lock-up houses immigrants who have no previous criminal history, and can provide shelter for recent arrivals seeking asylum or residency.

The controversial sound system selector was detained on Saturday, December 14, 2019, on arriving at Port Everglades Seaport in Ft Lauderdale, aboard the Independence of the Seas from Falmouth, Jamaica. He was held by ICE for further review of his travel documents and admissibility status.

IMMIGRATION JUDGE

Foota Hype appeared before an immigration judge on December 19 in Miami, Florida, when his case was reportedly dismissed, but he remained in custody. At the time, the Jamaican Consulate in Miami told The STAR that although the judge dismissed the matter, Foota Hype’s immigration lawyers requested more time to resolve the overall immigration concerns.

These concerns arose from the fact that Foota Hype’s papers, which allowed him temporary entry in the country, had expired. Additionally, his marriage to an American woman was reportedly dissolved before he was issued his green card. This identity card is a document issued to immigrants under the Immigration and Nationality Act, as evidence that the holder has been granted permission to reside permanently in the US.

The consulate further stated that its team spoke to Foota Hype by phone after his first court appearance.

“Mr Thomas advised that he had access to his lawyer and that he was treated well while detained,” the statement said.

His second court appearance was scheduled for January 20, 2020.