Palm Beach chef escapes after Alligator Alcatraz release
José Heriberto Gonzalez‑Gonzalez, 53, a restaurant manager and food truck owner in South Florida, was released from the Alligator Alcatraz immigration detention center on Monday after nearly two weeks of custody. He returned to his West Palm Beach home and is recovering.
The Florida Highway Patrol stopped González’s nephew’s truck for allegedly too dark window tinting on December 10. Authorities transferred the vehicle to ICE, moving González among facilities before he was placed at Alligator Alcatraz. His attorney noted he held a valid work permit linked to an immigration case.
Javier Gonzalez, José’s brother, confirmed the release to local media and said the family had reunited. He indicated the conditions in the detention center were harsh and that José had been impacted physically and emotionally.
Community members organized a prayer vigil over the weekend to support González, and a local boutique owner described him as a positive presence in the neighborhood, reflecting widespread local support.
On December 23, the Department of Homeland Security stated González’s arrest as an illegal alien and that his case would be heard by an immigration judge with due process.
Attorney declined to disclose further legal details; next steps will be managed.