Colombian activist freed after court finds ICE medical neglect punitive

Colombian activist Julián Palacios Obregón endured 650 days of immigration detention at the Northwest ICE Processing Center in Tacoma, where he experienced vomiting, diarrhea, fecal incontinence and repeated infections despite antibiotics. Repeated staff errors prevented him from receiving a medically recommended colonoscopy, and he reported ignored dietary orders and limited shower access. Representing himself, Palacios filed two habeas corpus petitions and five humanitarian requests, ultimately securing a court hearing that coincided with a missed medical appointment.

On September 11, 2026, Judge Kimberly K. Evanson concluded that the government's failure to provide adequate treatment turned his confinement into punitive punishment, violating due process. The decision underscores broader allegations of medical negligence in ICE facilities, where hundreds of detainees have filed lawsuits alleging missed medications, delayed care and worsening health conditions. After his release, Palacios expressed relief but remains fearful of future detention and ongoing health issues.