U.S. Customs and Border Patrol is warning travelers this summer holding green cards that they could face detention when traveling through airports.
There’s been much concern following reports that ICE agents have detained individuals returning to the U.S. from the Philippines.
Most recently, agents apprehended Maximo “Max” Londonio at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport after returning from a family vacation from the Philippines. The Cebu Daily News reports the husband and father of three has lived in the U.S. since the age of 12.
Londonio has traveled from the Philippines previously without incident, but under President Trump, agents took him into custody for past nonviolent offenses from his youth.
“As part of CBP’s national security mission, officers routinely determine the admissibility of foreign nationals using longstanding U.S. immigration law,” CBP said in a statement to the Inquirer. “Lawful permanent residents convicted of offenses considered to be crimes involving moral turpitude, including aggravated felonies, can legally lose their status and be removed. Crimes involving moral turpitude include offenses such as grand theft and the use or distribution of controlled substances.”
A Homeland Security commercial running on both radio and TV features Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem proclaiming that under President Trump, the United States has been made safer as murderers and rapists are being deported.
However, its apparent nonviolent offenders are also being caught into this dragnet despite their legal immigration status. Protesters deemed acting against the interest of the Trump administration’s U.S. policy are also being deported.
Londonio’s wife Crystal expressed outraged at what is happening.
“The lack of accountability by the United States CBP is failing him right now. It’s failing everybody. It’s taking from everyone who seeks refuge here — those seeking freedom and equality,” Crystal said to Cebu Daily News.
Some have also expressed disappointment in the Philippine Consulate for not helping its people.
“We are enraged that the Philippine government did not intervene quickly enough to fight for Max’s release,” said Jo Faralan of Tanggol Migrante. “Crystal already feels the U.S. government has failed her. It’s shameful that the Philippine government has failed them too.”
The Inquirer spoke to legal experts who advise that ICE cannot revoke a green card without first holding a hearing before an immigration judge.
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