Green Card Holder, Trump Supporter, Arrested by ICE: A Deportation Case Highlights Immigration System Complexities

A Ukrainian immigrant, Sergey Kostenyuk, who had lived in the United States for 30 years and held a green card, was recently arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. The arrest took place at his chicken coop business, where undercover agents apprehended him. Kostenyuk's wife, a US citizen, stated that he was unaware the individuals were ICE agents. The arrest was based on Kostenyuk's two prior convictions for minor offenses, such as the theft of a television and a trailer containing tools. However, a judge later ruled that these past convictions did not justify his deportation. Following two months of detention, Kostenyuk was released in late April. Experts in immigration law point out that even minor crimes can put immigrants at risk of deportation, regardless of their political affiliations or length of residence in the country. Kostenyuk's case underscores the complexities and uncertainties of the US immigration system. His story serves as a reminder of the precarious position of immigrants, even those who have lived in the country for decades and have contributed to the economy.