Scientist Arrested by Immigration Despite Green Card, Citing Old Drug Charge
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A 40-year-old scientist and permanent U.S. resident, Tae Heung “Will” Kim, found himself in a harrowing situation upon returning from his brother’s wedding earlier this month. Reportedly, he has been detained by immigration officials for over a week without a clear explanation, his lawyer has disclosed. The reason for the arrest, as hinted by the authorities, is linked to a minor drug charge from 14 years ago, and they intend to deport him based on this criminal record.
The government spokesperson for Customs and Border Protection explained the protocol stating, “If a green card holder is convicted of a drug offense, violating their status, that person is issued a Notice to Appear and CBP coordinates detention space with ICE. This alien is in ICE custody pending removal proceedings.” Kim, who has been residing in the United States since the age of 5 and is a Ph.D. student at Texas A&M University, has been actively involved in researching ways to combat Lyme disease, as highlighted by the National Korean American Service and Education Consortium.
According to NAKASEC, Kim was detained upon his return from the wedding in South Korea at San Francisco International Airport on July 21. The organization raised concerns about his treatment in custody, citing “inhumane conditions” and a lack of access to legal representation. Despite having completed his court-ordered community service following a misdemeanor charge for marijuana possession back in 2011, Kim’s advocates stress that he has not been informed of the reasons behind his prolonged detention.
While his supporters condemn the conditions to which Kim has allegedly been subjected, including being held past the 72-hour limit advised by CBP, his lawyer, Karl Krooth, relayed troubling details of his confinement. The lawyer mentioned that Kim was forced to sleep in a chair, had limited access to basic necessities such as water and substandard food, and endured constant illumination in his cell. Furthermore, an alarming statement was made regarding Kim’s constitutional rights by a CBP supervisor during a telephone conversation, denying him these rights based on his immigration status.
CBP has refrained from addressing enquiries regarding the reported mistreatment endured by Kim in custody as well as the allegations concerning his constitutional rights. Immigration and Customs Enforcement have also remained silent on the matter in response to requests for comments. Kim’s mother, Yehoon “Sharon” Lee, expressed her distress over the situation, highlighting the family’s belief in the U.S. as their home and stressing Kim’s right to a normal life despite his past mistake.
Kim’s case is brought to light amidst the increased immigration enforcement measures under the current administration, drawing attention to the broader implications of such actions. NAKASEC Co-Director Becky Belcore criticised the arrest, warning of the potential erosion of constitutional rights and the alarming shift towards authoritarianism. The ongoing debate surrounding immigration policies and their impact on individuals and communities continues to garner attention and spark discussions on civil liberties and human rights.
The situation faced by Tae Heung “Will” Kim serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities surrounding immigration laws, the treatment of individuals with criminal records, and the broader implications for families and communities. As the discourse on immigration reform evolves, cases like Kim’s underscore the need for a balanced and humane approach to address the challenges faced by immigrants while upholding fundamental rights and values.