MIAMI — The family of Justo Betancourt, a Cuban immigrant, is demanding answers after he was detained during what was supposed to be a routine immigration check-in.

Betancourt, who has lived in the United States for 36 years, is being held at Alligator Alcatraz Detention Center. His daughters say he went to court Wednesday for his annual appointment and never came home.

“When he went in, my sister and my aunt weren’t aware until hours later that they took him,” said Kannis Betancourt, one of his daughters.

The family says Betancourt, a single father who raised his children on his own, has long been a hardworking member of the community. They’re now deeply concerned about his health.

“He’s a diabetic man who requires insulin twice a day,” said Arianne Betancourt, his eldest daughter. “The one time we spoke to him, they told him if he wanted insulin, he could get it in Mexico.”

According to the family, Betancourt was charged with conspiracy five years ago, but the case was dropped — even though he remained on probation. His children believe he deserves compassion, not detention.

“We are all human,” Arianne said. “No matter what we’ve done or what mistakes we’ve made, everyone is capable of change and of being better. As a country, we should be better.”

The Betancourt family is now working with advocates to push for his release and ensure he receives the medical care he needs while in custody.

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