A University of Alabama graduate student, Alireza Doroudi, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) this week. He is currently being held at Pickens County Jail in Alabama.
Doroudi is a mechanical engineering Ph.D. student originally from Iran. His detention has raised concerns among students and advocacy groups, as no official charges have been listed in court records.
Why Was Alireza Doroudi Detained?
As of now, there is no confirmed reason for his detention. Public records from ICE do not provide any details about the circumstances.
Doroudi’s attorney, David Rozas, a criminal and immigration lawyer from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, has declined to comment on the case.
Community Response & Advocacy Groups Speak Out
A GoFundMe campaign was created by his fiancée, who is also a graduate student, to support Doroudi.
Several groups have spoken out about the case:
- The National Iranian American Council (NIAC) issued a statement demanding answers: “We are deeply disturbed by the arrest of Alireza Doroudi. ICE must clarify his whereabouts and disclose whether he has been charged. If no charges exist, he should be released immediately.”
- University of Alabama College Democrats criticized the detention, calling it an attack on international students: “Donald Trump, [ICE Acting Director] Tom Homan, and ICE have struck a vicious blow against the University of Alabama’s international community. ICE has not provided justification for this arrest, making it unclear whether this is politically motivated.”
University of Alabama’s Response
A spokesperson for the University of Alabama confirmed that a doctoral student was detained off-campus by ICE but did not reveal Doroudi’s name due to privacy policies.
The university currently hosts around 1,200 international students, with 90 students from Iran. Across Alabama, nearly 9,000 international students are enrolled in various institutions.
What Happens Next in the Immigration Process?
Typically, immigrants detained in Alabama are held in local jails for a few days before being transferred to Louisiana for processing.
What Should International Students Know?
Immigration policies are complex and subject to change. Students should:
- Stay informed about their university’s policies.
- Understand state and federal immigration laws.
- Be aware that ICE agents may operate on campus. They need a warrant to enter private spaces like dormitories or apartments.
The University of Alabama’s International Students and Scholars Service (ISSS) supports students on F-1 and J-1 visas. While students may have an expired visa, they are allowed to stay as long as they continue their studies.
AL.com reached out to the ISSS office, which redirected all inquiries to the university’s communications department.
Conclusion
As of now, many questions remain unanswered regarding Alireza Doroudi’s detention. With growing concerns from advocacy groups, fellow students, and the university community, the case is under close watch.
We will continue to provide updates as new information emerges.
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