Gothamist: Pardoned By Cuomo But Detained By ICE, Bronx Immigrant Marks Three Years In ICE Detention

“In a series of court decisions since the pardon, neither immigration nor federal judges have agreed to his release — even on bond.

“Black immigrants are treated differently in these court proceedings,” said Sophia Gurulé, his attorney from Bronx Defenders. “For some reason they don’t value the community ties that he has, they don’t value his Black family, his Black wife, his Black baby girl.”

Cuomo’s pardon was spurred by supportive letters from elected officials, including U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortes and Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, activist organizations, and news stories. A petition circulated to demand Ousman’s release, and “Free Ousman” graffiti has been found around New York.”

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