Deported Teen Dreams of Returning to Georgia After Life in Honduras

Axel Archaga Ríos, an 18-year-old who was brought to the U.S. at the age of four, faces an uncertain future after being deported to Honduras following a traffic stop in Georgia. Despite having no criminal record and being a dedicated student, he was taken into custody by ICE after a minor traffic violation. Axel, who dreams of joining the U.S. Army, now lives in fear in a dangerous neighborhood in Tegucigalpa, struggling to adapt to a country he barely remembers. His family, including his mother and siblings, remain in the U.S., and he hopes to return to complete his education and support them.

Key Details: • Axel was detained on March 27 for a traffic violation and deported shortly after. • He was brought to the U.S. illegally on June 25, 2014, and had a deportation order issued in 2015. • Currently living with his maternal grandparents in Tegucigalpa, Axel feels unsafe in his surroundings. • He aspires to return to the U.S. to finish school and help his family.