Andry Hernandez Romero, a Venezuelan migrant deported by the Trump administration to El Salvador's notorious megaprison, was previously expelled from the US. Despite his claims of fleeing persecution for being gay, he was treated as a gangbanger upon deportation based on tattoos. His re-entry into the US occurred through the now-defunct CBP One application. Lawyers argue he has a credible asylum claim, but his deportation has resulted in harrowing treatment in prison, sparking outrage among advocates who emphasize his artistic background and the wrongful labeling as a gang member.
A photographer who captured the moment Hernandez Romero was escorted into the megaprison in El Salvador reported hearing the migrant cry out, "I'm not a gang member. I'm gay. I'm a stylist" as he was slapped and had his head shaved, according to CBS News.
It's horrifying to see someone who we've met and know as a sweet, funny artist in the most horrible conditions I could imagine," Toczylowski said.
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