News Summary
Ernesto Manuel-Andres, an 18-year-old from Bowling Green, has been released from ICE custody after community advocacy efforts. His release followed protests and support organized by local groups highlighting his status as a Special Immigrant Juvenile. Despite returning home, Ernesto still faces ongoing immigration challenges. The community continues to rally for justice and support for immigrant rights, reflecting a broader movement against systemic issues in the immigration system.
Bowling Green – Ernesto Manuel-Andres, an 18-year-old resident of Bowling Green, has been released from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody after community support played a crucial role in his case. Ernesto was released on June 24, 2025, following his detention on June 4, shortly after graduating from high school.
Advocates in his community rallied for Ernesto’s release, with protests and vigils highlighting his situation and pushing for justice. Luma Mufleh, the CEO of Fugees Family, a nonprofit that provides support for immigrant education, took a significant role in advocating for Ernesto, emphasizing his right to remain in the U.S. under Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) status.
While in custody, Ernesto was moved to a facility located in Monroe, Louisiana. A judge had set his bond at $1,500 on June 23, 2025. Initially, there were concerns that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) might appeal this decision, which would delay his release. However, on June 25, it was reported that DHS either did not appeal or missed the deadline to do so, thus clearing the path for Ernesto’s release.
The announcement of his release came late on the evening of June 24, and community members were invited to welcome him back at his home on Old Morgantown Road the following evening. Following his release, Ernesto expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support from the community, remarking on the surprise of such a strong collective response.
Despite his return home, Ernesto’s legal challenges are far from over. He has ongoing court obligations related to immigration charges, including accusations of being in the country illegally. As part of the conditions of his bond, Ernesto is required to attend all future court hearings.
The support for Ernesto reflects a larger movement within Bowling Green, as many community members continue to rally for assistance and justice for individuals facing similar immigration challenges. Special Immigrant Juvenile status is granted to youth who have endured abandonment, neglect, or abuse, which Ernesto qualifies for following his experiences.
Ernesto’s case highlights the importance of community support and advocacy in immigration matters. His release has rekindled discussions about the challenges faced by immigrants in the U.S., as well as the systemic issues within the immigration system that affect many families and individuals. The Bowling Green community remains steadfast in its commitment to support those like Ernesto, ensuring they have a voice and a chance for a better future.
The ongoing situation demonstrates the resilience of community advocacy and the impact of organized efforts aimed at addressing immigration issues. Ernesto’s story serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding immigration policies and the lives they affect, sparking more dialogues about reform and support for immigrant families.
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Additional Resources
- WBKO: Bowling Green Teen Released from ICE Custody
- Kentucky.com: Bowling Green’s ICE Detainee Released
- Fox 56 News: Bowling Green Teen’s Release from ICE
- WNKY: Teranga Academy Graduate Released on Bond
- WKU Herald: Community Calls for Return of ICE Detainee
- Wikipedia: Immigration in the United States
- Google Search: Immigration Advocacy
- Google Scholar: Immigration Detention Cases
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Immigration
- Google News: Ernesto Manuel-Andres
Author: STAFF HERE BOWLING GREEN WRITER
The BOWLING GREEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBowlingGreen.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bowling Green, Warren County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Corvette Homecoming, International Festival, concerts at SKyPAC, and sports events at Beech Bend Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and the African American Museum Bowling Green Area, plus leading businesses in automotive, apparel, and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors Corvette Assembly Plant, Fruit of the Loom, and Med Center Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELexingtonKY.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
