- United States
- Mass.
- Letter
A permanent resident with a valid green card should not face detention, interrogation, or abusive treatment by immigration officials. In the case of Fabian Schmidt, the reported details of his treatment at Logan Airport and subsequent detention are extremely concerning. Being stripped naked, placed in a cold shower, deprived of food, water and medication, and facing coercive pressure to give up his legal residency status appear to be clear violations of his rights. While green card holders can potentially face deportation proceedings for certain criminal convictions, Schmidt's previous misdemeanor charge for marijuana possession should not nullify his permanent resident status, especially since it was reportedly dismissed after law changes. His decade-old DUI, which he completed all requirements for, also does not justify the appalling treatment he has allegedly endured. Immigration authorities must uphold due process and extend full legal protections to permanent residents. Detaining and mistreating a green card holder in this manner undermines America's commitment to human rights and equal justice under the law. Schmidt must be immediately released from custody, provided full medical care, and any deportation proceedings must follow proper judicial review with access to legal counsel. Abusive tactics have no place in immigration enforcement against legally admitted permanent residents.
