© 2024 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Detroit Judge To Hear Motion Against Federal Immigration Authorities Monday

Gavel
s_falkow
/
flickr creative commons

A federal judge in Detroit will hear arguments today about alleged strong-arm tactics against Iraqi detainees.

The ACLU represents several hundred Iraqi immigrants who face deportation orders for crimes – many of which were committed years ago and for which sentences were already served.

The ACLU of Michigan says immigration agents are telling detainees if they don’t sign a document saying they want to go back to Iraq, they’ll be criminally prosecuted – and detained indefinitely.

“That is absolutely appalling strong-arm tactics,” said ACLU attorney Miriam Aukerman.

Aukerman says the ACLU also wants the judge to make sure they are able to speak to their clients – some of whom have already signed the document.

Many of the detainees are Christians who face religious persecution if they return to Iraq.

Before becoming the newest Capitol reporter for Michigan Public Radio Network, Cheyna Roth was an attorney. She spent her days fighting it out in court as an assistant prosecuting attorney for Ionia County.
Related Content
Journalism at this station is made possible by donors who value local reporting. Donate today to keep stories like this one coming. It is thanks to your generosity that we can keep this content free and accessible for everyone. Thanks!