Venezuelan Man Charged with Drunk Driving After Fatal Crash in Houston

Houston, Texas - A distressing incident unfolded in north Houston when a seven-year-old girl, Ivory Smith, lost her life in a crash caused by a Venezuelan migrant, Joel Enrique Gonzalez Chacin, who had been released from jail just two months earlier. Chacin, now 41, faces charges of intoxicated manslaughter, which could lead to at least two years behind bars.

The accident, which occurred on December 1, not only ended Ivory's young life but also left her mother with severe injuries. Chacin's prior criminal record included an assault on a family member, for which he served 113 days in jail. However, instead of facing deportation, he was released back into the community, a decision now under heavy scrutiny.

In the wake of the crash, ICE placed an immigration detainer on Chacin on December 4, highlighting the ongoing issues with immigration enforcement when it comes to individuals with criminal backgrounds.

The tragedy has sparked a significant outcry from local advocates like Andy Kahan, who pointed out the potential for Ivory's survival had different actions been taken post Chacin's earlier arrest. "If he had kept that hold on him, no ifs, ands or buts, you have a 7-year-old girl who would be alive today and a mother who wasn't seriously injured," Kahan lamented, echoing the sentiments of many in the community.

This event has reignited discussions around immigration policy and public safety, with many calling for a reevaluation of how individuals with criminal records are handled after their release from custody. The debate centers on ensuring that such individuals do not pose further risks to public safety.

As the community mourns the loss of young Ivory, the legal system is set to scrutinize Chacin's actions, while broader questions about immigration, crime, and policy continue to be debated. This tragic case underscores the complexities and human impact at the intersection of immigration law and public safety, urging a closer look at existing practices to safeguard communities better.