Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents detained a McDonald’s manager in Long Island just before the restaurant’s annual company picnic, despite his claims of having valid work documents. Christian Rodriguez, a longtime employee, was taken into custody following an immigration hearing in Bethpage. Federal officials allege he overstayed his visa and has a criminal record, while co-workers describe the arrest as abrupt and shocking.
Longtime Employee Detained
Christian Rodriguez, employed for years at the Oceanside McDonald’s, was detained on August 21. According to Newsday, he reportedly held a Social Security number and had been considered a reliable worker. The arrest happened just before the company’s scheduled picnic, catching his colleagues off guard.
Federal Officials’ Statement
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said Rodriguez entered the U.S. on a B-2 tourist visa in December 2015, which required departure by June 2016. “Nearly 10 years later, he is still illegally in the U.S.,” a DHS spokesperson said. They added that his record includes “convictions for battery and property damage crimes.” ICE emphasized, “President Donald Trump and Secretary Kristi Noem have been clear: criminal illegal aliens are not welcome in the United States.”
Co-Worker Accounts
A colleague, speaking anonymously, told Newsday that Rodriguez had attended an immigration hearing earlier in August, which appeared positive. However, during a second hearing on August 21, he texted a co-worker around 2 p.m., the time of the picnic, saying his application had been denied and ICE had arrested him. He was then taken to the Central Islip federal courthouse.
Company Response Pending
McDonald’s has not issued an official statement regarding the detention. Newsweek reported reaching out to the company for comment, but had received no response by press time.
Immigration Status in Question
Rodriguez, who lived in Baldwin, overstayed his tourist visa, according to government documents. His notice to appear listed him as removable for failing to leave the U.S. within the permitted timeframe.
Broader Deportation Push
Rodriguez’s case comes amid President Trump’s pledge to deport millions of undocumented migrants. The administration has said anyone residing in the U.S. unlawfully is considered a criminal. ICE officials underscored that those with criminal convictions are priority targets for removal.
Economic Concerns Raised
Experts have expressed worry about the economic fallout of mass deportations. Pew Research Center reported immigrants made up 20 percent of U.S. workers earlier this year, but by June that figure fell to 19 percent—a decline of over 750,000 workers. Analysts warn that industries reliant on immigrant labor could face mounting shortages.