Photo: Stephen Maturen / Getty Images News / Getty Images
A U.S. man says he was detained by a U.S. Border Patrol agent outside his home after the agent questioned his citizenship based on his accent — despite the agent also speaking with a noticeable accent.
Ramon Menera recorded the encounter, which shows an agent demanding his identification and explaining that the request was triggered by how Menera speaks. When Menera questioned the justification and declined to show ID, the agent restrained him with zip ties and escorted him away.
Menera said agents later checked his information in their system and released him without filing charges. He added that the detention happened in full view of his young daughter, who watched from inside their home.
According to Menera, his 5-year-old daughter has since been afraid to go outside after witnessing the incident. He shared documentation with CNN showing he holds a U.S. passport card issued in 2021. Though born in Mexico, Menera is a U.S. citizen.
See the video here.
CNN has contacted the Department of Homeland Security seeking comment on the encounter.
SOURCE: WHSV3