Laotian illegal immigrants convicted of serious crimes deported after federal orders

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Full Story

Twelve Laotian illegal immigrants convicted of crimes including obstructing a murder investigation, child s-x crimes, and drug trafficking have been deported. All had existing removal orders, some dating back to 2003.

Federal immigration judges had previously issued removal orders against each individual. These orders allow deportation once legal processes are complete.

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The Context

The crimes involved range from violent offenses to drug-related charges. Such convictions can make noncitizens deportable under U.S. law.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement carries out deportations for those with final orders. In this case, all 12 were returned to Laos.

Supporters of strict deportation policies argue it protects public safety. They say individuals who commit serious crimes should not remain in the country.

Critics often raise concerns about due process and family separation. They argue that deportation can have humanitarian consequences.

Laos, a Southeast Asian country, accepts deportees from the United States under established agreements. Travel arrangements are coordinated by federal agencies.

The deportations align with long-standing federal policy to prioritize removal of criminals. Such actions remain a point of political debate.