Don Opitz's Letter

Dear Honorable Immigration Judge:

I am writing as a friend of the family of Pedro Guzman Perez to ask for your kind consideration in setting a bond hearing and his release from detention. I have known Pedro and his wife, Emily Nelson Guzman, since 1999 when I was Emily’s coworker at the University of Minnesota’s academic women’s center. Prior to their marriage, Pedro occasionally visited Emily at work, and I found him to be a likeable young man who clearly cared about Emily. Since my departure from the women’s center, Emily and I remained in touch. Over the years she has shared with me the good news about their marriage in 2004 and the birth of their now-three-year-old beautiful son, Logan, as well as the hardships her family has weathered. All through their marriage, I have witnessed nothing but good things in their lives. Together they have established a cozy home in Durham, made valuable contributions to their work and communities, and brought together a wide circle of family and friends. I am proud to count myself among them.

Pedro’s detention has come as a shock to us all and appears unjust. I know Pedro to be an honest and caring father, husband and friend. Please work with the family in setting a bond hearing and Pedro’s release.

Sincerely,



Donald L. Opitz, Ph.D.