Mohsen Mahdawi, a student at Columbia University, faced arrest and detention by immigration agents after his naturalization interview in Vermont. Judge Geoffrey Crawford highlighted the harm caused by Mahdawi's two-week detention despite no crime being charged against him. Following his release, with conditions limiting his travel, Mahdawi expressed determination, proclaiming the importance of holding the Constitution accountable. His detention is viewed by many as retaliation for his advocacy for Palestinian rights, linked to campus protests during the recent Israel-Hamas conflict. His case highlights issues surrounding immigration and free speech in the U.S.
Talking to supporters outside the Vermont federal courthouse, Mahdawi said his release sends a message that, "we, the people, will hold the Constitution accountable for the principles and values that we believe in."
U.S. District Judge Geoffrey Crawford said Mahdawi's detention for two weeks, 'so far demonstrates great harm to a person who has been charged with no crime.'
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