- Associated Press - Friday, April 14, 2017

GREENWOOD, Miss. (AP) - The Latest on the immigration status of a Greenwood family (all times local):

2:45 p.m.

A Greenwood immigrant facing deportation to Mexico isn’t going anywhere yet.

The Greenwood Commonwealth reports (https://bit.ly/2pBINy8) that Martin Duron-Esparza says he has been given a reprieve until his five children complete school this spring. The school year ends on May 22.

Duron-Esparza has lived in Leflore County since he was 16. He obtained a series of annual work permits to maintain farm irrigation systems, but never obtained a work visa.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement declined comment to the Greenwood Commonwealth.

The family has turned to local officials, clergy and U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson, a Mississippi Democrat, to plead their case. Thompson met with Duron-Esparza in person at political meeting in Greenwood Wednesday.

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11:45 a.m.

A Greenwood family is asking immigration officials to give them more time before reporting to authorities and facing possible deportation.

The Greenwood Commonwealth reports (https://bit.ly/2ocdaLj ) that Martin and Elizabeth Duron-Esparza are asking for at least a monthlong delay. The couple has five children and wants to wait for the end of the school year and to get their finances in order in case they’re deported.

Martin Duron-Esparza obtained a series of annual work permits to maintain farm irrigation systems, but never obtained permanent residency.

ICE spokesman Thomas Byrd told the Commonwealth he was unable to comment at the time.

If deported, the Duron-Esparzas will be sent to Mexico.

The family is working with local officials, clergy and U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson, a Mississippi Democrat.

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Information from: The Greenwood Commonwealth, https://www.gwcommonwealth.com

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