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NYC Council employee detained in Bethpage ordered deported to Venezuela

Rafael Rubio, a New York City Council staffer, was originally held after a routine asylum appointment in Bethpage in January.

Tara Rincon

Mar 19, 2026, 6:40 AM

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An immigration judge has ordered the deportation of a man who was detained on Long Island earlier this year.

Rafael Rubio, a New York City Council staffer, was originally held after a routine asylum appointment in Bethpage in January.

The 45-year-old is now being ordered to return to Venezuela, according to council speaker Julie Menin.

Menin released a statement Wednesday saying the ruling is based on a technical error.

"This outcome does not change the fundamental facts of this case: Rafael had legal authorization to remain in the United States, he followed the rules, and he showed up for a routine immigration appointment — only to be detained and held for months now,” she continued.

As News 12 has reported, protests were held at the Manhattan detention center that Rubio was transferred to.

The city council says an appeal will be filed.

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