An individual born in Edmonton and residing in the United States has returned to Canada after spending a lengthy period in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention. Curtis Wright, aged 40, who had been living in the U.S., was detained by ICE in Texas for nine months following a trip to Mexico in November, due to a past misdemeanor drug possession charge. Wright, a U.S. permanent resident, aimed to stay in the U.S. to be with his two young sons, aged 8 and 11, who reside in Texas.
After being returned to Canada in mid-August, Wright is currently staying at his parents’ residence in Kelowna, British Columbia, with his fiancée and their two-year-old daughter. In an interview with Edmonton AM, Wright discussed the difficulties he encountered while fighting to remain in the U.S.
Upon returning to Texas after his trip to Mexico, Wright was directed to secondary screening where he was informed of his detention due to the previous drug possession charge. He was taken into custody and faced numerous challenges during his time in detention, including delays in court proceedings and unfavorable living conditions. Despite efforts to fight his case, Wright eventually made the decision to voluntarily return to Canada.
Having a background in the oil and gas industry, Wright plans to resume his career in Edmonton, where he has strong family support. His employer is establishing a Canadian division for him to lead, allowing him to rebuild his life in his home country.