Judge Blocks Texas Deposition of Migrant Shelter Leaders Amid Ongoing Investigation

McALLEN, Texas (AP) — A Texas judge has denied the state’s request to compel a deposition from leaders of Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley, a significant migrant shelter on the U.S.-Mexico border. This ruling, issued by state District Judge J.R. Flores, represents a setback for the Republican-led investigation into various migrant aid organizations, including Catholic Charities, which provides temporary housing for up to 2,000 women and children during peak border crossing times. The investigation, spearheaded by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, alleges that these aid groups are facilitating illegal entry into the U.S. However, Catholic Charities and other targeted organizations have refuted these claims, asserting that the state has not presented any evidence to support its allegations. The recent court order protects the leaders of Catholic Charities from being deposed, marking the second instance in recent weeks where a Texas court has challenged the state’s investigation efforts. Sister Norma Pimentel, executive director of Catholic Charities, expressed hope that the organization could move past the legal challenges and focus on its mission of protecting human dignity. The nonprofit, which operates a shelter that typically accommodates around 1,000 migrants weekly, has previously provided extensive documentation to the state regarding its operations. The investigation into migrant aid groups was initiated following a 2022 letter from Governor Greg Abbott to Paxton, suggesting, without evidence, that these organizations might be aiding illegal immigration.