Green Card holders scrutiny is increasing as U.S. immigration authorities ramp up enforcement targeting non-citizens with prior criminal convictions—even those with decades-old offenses.
Recent cases show permanent residents who have served their sentences are now being detained or placed in removal proceedings. On April 3, CNN reported that Marlon Parris, a 45-year-old Green Card holder from Trinidad and Tobago, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Parris, a decorated Iraq War veteran who obtained permanent residency in 1997, pleaded guilty to drug trafficking in 2011. Despite a 2016 Green Card renewal and a previous letter from ICE and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stating he was not subject to deportation, Parris was arrested near his Arizona home during the Trump administration. His deportation hearing is set for April 25.
Old Convictions Prompt New Detentions
Last month, Llewellyn Dixon, a 64-year-old Green Card holder, was detained at SeaTac Airport in Washington State after returning from the Philippines. Authorities cited a 2000 embezzlement conviction, for which Dixon had paid a $6,400 fine.
These cases highlight the heightened focus on past convictions. In Los Angeles, immigration attorneys have reported increased inquiries from Korean Green Card holders, particularly those with DUI or misdemeanor records.
According to the Korean Consulate General in LA, no Korean nationals in the region have been detained during the recent two-month crackdown. However, attorney Jeonghun Song advised Green Card holders with multiple DUIs to avoid international travel and consider applying for U.S. citizenship.
Viral Misinformation Sparks Confusion
Social media has contributed to rising anxiety. A recent TikTok video, viewed over 2.5 million times, claimed a young man had his Green Card confiscated and corner cut at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) before being deported.
Immigration attorney Dave Noh clarified that this scenario typically involves signing Form I-407, which indicates voluntary surrender of permanent resident status. “Cutting a corner off a Green Card usually means the person agreed to give it up. Never sign immigration documents without full understanding,” Noh said.
As enforcement tightens, legal experts stress the importance of verifying facts and seeking guidance from qualified immigration professionals before traveling or taking action.
By YEOL JANG [jang.yeol@koreadaily.com]
