Andy came to New York from Dominican Republic in 1975 at age 8 being granted Lawful Permanent Resident. His family settled in Washington Heights, where he went to school, got a job, became thoroughly Americanized. Washington Heights as you may know is one of New York City's "most murderous neighborhoods." Most of the violence could be attributed to the arrival of crack cocaine in the mid-1980s and the activities of the rival drug gangs who plied their trade on neighborhood street corners. As late as 1998, drug arrests in Washington Heights occurred once every hour-and-a-half. For a child this life style could not have been easy.
During Andy's life he made mistakes. In 1992, he was convicted of criminal possession of stolen property in the 5th degree. Andy has never stolen anything in his life; however he was with someone that had stolen the vehicle prior to meeting with Andy. When asked by a police officer to move the vehicle from being double parked, like an idiot Andy volunteered to move it. He was then arrested. Andy was sentenced to three (3) years probation. For this crime he was not required to serve any time in jail.
In 1994 he was convicted of conspiracy to Possess Unauthorized Access Devices. For this offense he was sentenced to Three (3) years probation and 400 hours of community service. For this crime he was not required to serve any time in jail.
But by the end of 1994, he had put his life back together went to college full time and worked. In 1999 he got married raising his biological daughter age 10 and his step daughter age 5. In 2003 becoming one of the most admired and respected producers in Telemundo. In 2008 becoming a foster parent; in lieu of giving children a better life. Believing his past was behind him, he decided to go to Dominican Republic to visit with his family. On July 3, 2007 is were the nightmare began, arriving back from his trip from the Dominican Republic Andy was held in Miami International airport for a miserable 10 hours, now he is on deportation proceedings after living an honorable life for over 16 years.
Andy has been a great resource, friend, and mentor to so very many people. He's has given back to our communities over and over again through volunteerism and exemplary community service. Knowing Andy and the level of respect he has earned in our communities - I find it impossible to understand how taking Andy away from his children, his family, and his community can serve justice.
Thank you so much for all your support.
We, the undersigned, oppose the deportation of Anyerson (Andy) Hernandez of the United States.
Anyerson (Andy) Hernandez arrived in the United States as a young child and has resided here for at least 33 years. He has no or little social, familial and/or political nexus to Dominican Republic. Moreover, Anyerson Hernandez does not present a threat to society and, in fact, he has contributed substantially to our community. Anyerson Hernandez has American-born children and other family members who are dependent on him. It is morally reprehensible to break up family members.
We appeal for justice for Anyerson Hernandez, who has the right to stay in the United States with his family and our community from which he has draw love and support.
