PHILADELPHIA, PA — State Sen. Art Haywood used his 44th consecutive Monday vigil outside Philadelphia’s ICE office to press federal immigration authorities over the medical treatment of detainees, citing three cases in which families and advocates allege serious medical neglect, including two deaths in custody.
Haywood, joined Monday by faith leaders, immigrant advocates and community members, pointed to the cases of Gabriel Johnson, Edwin Lopez Cornejo and Parady La. The allegations about their treatment were presented by Haywood based on accounts from the men’s families and advocates.
Johnson, a North Carolina pastor, repeatedly informed ICE personnel that he had high blood pressure and epilepsy, according to his family and advocates. They allege his concerns were mocked before he suffered a stroke while in custody that left him paralyzed on one side.
Lopez Cornejo also had high blood pressure and epilepsy, according to the accounts cited by Haywood. He was taken to Delaney Hall despite presenting work permits to ICE personnel and was allegedly denied family visits for six weeks.
During telephone conversations with relatives, Lopez Cornejo reported that he was not receiving his medication, according to Haywood. He died during his seventh week in custody.
La was detained by ICE and taken to its Philadelphia detention facility, according to Haywood. Advocates allege he complained of abdominal pain for several days without receiving adequate attention before he died in custody.
The information provided by Haywood did not include responses from ICE to the allegations surrounding the three cases.
Haywood characterized the cases as evidence of a broader problem with the treatment of people in immigration detention.
“There is a blatant pattern of disregard for human life among these ICE agents,” Haywood said. “Whether Black, brown, or white, rich or poor, born in Liberia or Ecuador, we all have dignity. ICE is violating immigrants’ dignity and their God-given worth.”
The demonstrations have been held each Monday outside the Philadelphia ICE office and have drawn faith leaders, elected officials, immigrant advocates and other participants seeking changes to federal immigration enforcement practices.
Haywood is encouraging residents, religious leaders and community organizations to participate in the weekly vigils, held at 11 a.m. Mondays outside the Philadelphia ICE office at 114 N. 8th St.
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