Sebastian Flores, a member of Norwood-based running group, Bronx Nomads, who frequently meet and start their runs at the Williamsbridge Oval park, was unexpectedly detained by border patrol at an airport on Oct. 13 while traveling for work from New York to El Paso, Texas, and is now being held in ICE custody, according to his cousins. A gofundme page has since been set-up to help with his legal expenses as he fights his case and has been shared by Bronx Sole, an affiliate group of Bronx Nomads.

 

Cousins, Chris Flores, Harold Flores, and Cecilia Flores, said they have been with Sebastian since he first arrived in the United States at just five years old. “We grew up together in the Bronx, New York, as one big family that has always supported one another through everything life brings,” they wrote.

 

“Sebastian came to this country full of energy, curiosity, and kindness and at 27, that has never changed. He has worked tirelessly to build a life rooted in hard work, purpose, and community. He’s a district manager for 787 Coffee, a company that reflects his leadership and dedication. Beyond his professional success, Sebastian has become a beloved figure in New York City’s running community, a mentor, organizer, and friend to hundreds of runners.”

They said Flores has led multiple running clubs, including the Bronx Nomads and the Oval Park Track Club, “helping people from all walks of life find connection, purpose, and health through running.” They said he has also completed the New York City marathon, cheered on by friends and community members who they said know him as someone who shows up for others always. “Sebastian has also organized events like the Men’s Mental Health Run/Walk to promote wellness and belonging, and he has coached dozens of runners free of charge, using his passion to lift others up,” they said.

 

The cousins added “Our family is doing everything we can to secure legal representation, gather documentation, and make sure Sebastian has the support he needs to come home safely. Sebastian has always been the first to help others, whether checking on friends during hard times, supporting families in need, or cheering on runners at the NYC Marathon. He has built his life around helping others, and now he’s the one who needs us to show up for him.”

 

The cousins said the funds raised as part of the gofundme campaign will go toward legal fees and representation which they estimate at between $10,000 and $15,000, travel costs for family members to fly from Boston to El Paso to deliver what they said are critical legal documents and attend hearings, which they estimate at around $4,000, potential bond costs, which they estimate at between $3,000 and $5,000, lodging, transportation, and other related expenses during the legal process.

“We’re setting our fundraising goal at $25,000 to ensure we can cover all immediate and unforeseen costs that come with fighting for his release and supporting him once he’s home,” they said.

 

They asked people to please consider donating and sharing the campaign widely. “Every contribution, no matter the size, helps bring Sebastian one step closer to home,” they said. “From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your kindness, generosity, and belief in him. With gratitude, Chris Flores, Harold Flores, and Cecilia Flores-Hernandez.”

 

Norwood News has reached out to the ICE press office to ask for more information on the rationale for the alleged detention of Flores and will share any details we receive.

 

Those wishing to donate can access the gofundme page here.