Bulgarian Chicago business owner dies in ICE custody, sparking calls for 'immediate investigation'
ABC7 Chicago • • nation
Key Points:
- Nenko Gantchev, a 56-year-old Bulgarian man arrested during a recent immigration enforcement operation in Chicago, died in ICE custody at the North Lake Correctional Facility in Michigan; his death is under investigation but is suspected to be from natural causes.
- Gantchev, who suffered from type 2 diabetes, reportedly experienced deteriorating health while detained, with family and friends alleging inadequate medical care and diet accommodations at the private prison operated by GEO Group.
- Despite a federal judge ordering his release on bond, Gantchev remained in custody after the order was blocked by an appeals court; he faced the choice of voluntary removal to Bulgaria or continued detention while awaiting bond.
- ICE labeled Gantchev a "criminal,"
