In May 2019, Bello recited his poem “Dear America,” inspired by his first-hand experience in Mesa Verde detention facility, at a local forum. Less than 36 hours later, he was re-arrested in apparent retaliation for his poem by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for a purported violation of his bond. He was released on bail three months later. Bello is suing ICE for violating his First Amendment rights.