Guatemala-born father living in Indiantown for 10 years fights deportation

INDIANTOWN, Fla. - For more than 10 years, Anibal Mazariegos has called Indiantown home.

Before that, he lived in Guatemala. He sought a better life, so he illegally crossed the border into the United States.

Since that time he's married and had four children.

Now, his family has been torn apart as he fights deportation.

"I just miss him so much. I wish he could come back," said 11-year-old Julie Mazariegos.

His children, all under the age of 18, were born in the U.S.

Tears were shed as they talked about memories made and those that may be lost.

"We wanted him to be with us during graduation, when we get married," said his oldest daughter, Jaquelin.

On Monday, Mazariegos' twins celebrated their 11th birthday. It was the first time their dad was not there.

"He hugs us, and always says happy birthday, and kisses us on the cheek because he loves us so much," said Jeanette Mazariegos.

Attorneys for Anibal Mazariegos say their client was taken into custody after immigration officers were doing an immigration check on someone else who previously lived at the home before him.

When they spoke with him, they found out he had been in their system in 1999 and received an extension. That extension had expired, and he was handcuffed and hauled off to jail.

Mazariegos worked as a landscaper making $10 an hour. Neighbors have watched his children grow up and say they are hoping he comes home soon.

"He's a very good guy, he's well respected and does what he's gotta do and worked every day," said Cleveland McKnight.

His oldest child says kids of illegal immigrants suffer the most and hope someone intervenes soon to save their family.

"How would you like it if your family was taken away from you?" asked his son, Jordi.