Federal judge rules detainment of father of teen with cancer unlawful, orders prompt bond hearing

CHICAGO (WLS) -- There was a new ruling Friday in the case of a father who was detained by federal immigration agents in Niles while his daughter fights cancer.

A judge ruled that he must be given a prompt bond hearing.

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Ruben Torres Maldonado has been in custody since last Saturday. DHS says he's been living in the U.S. illegally for years.

His 16-year-old daughter is undergoing cancer treatment, family members said.

A federal judge ruled that Maldonado's detention is unlawful and he must have a bond hearing on or before Oct. 31.

The case was in court Thursday.

The Department of Homeland Security says the man has a history of driving offenses, including driving without a valid license and speeding.

Assistant CHS Secretary Tricia McLaughlin issued the following statement this week:
"On October 18, U.S. Border Patrol conducted a targeted immigration enforcement operation that resulted in the arrest of Ruben Torres Maldanado, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico.

"His criminal history shows he has a history of habitual driving offenses and has been charged multiple times with driving without insurance, driving without a valid license, and speeding.

"During his arrest he did not comply with instructions from the officers and attempted to flee in his vehicle and backed into a government vehicle. He will remain in ICE custody pending removal.

"This is nothing more than a desperate Hail Mary attempt to keep a criminal illegal alien in our country. The Trump administration is fighting for the rule of law and the American people."