By Mary Campbell

A health worker who has lived legally in the United States for over five decades was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at a California airport, despite holding a valid green card. The incident has ignited renewed discussion about the legal vulnerabilities of long-term permanent residents and the crucial protections that come with U.S. citizenship.

A Shocking Airport Detention

Jane Doe (name changed for privacy) 54, originally from Ireland, has lived in the United States since childhood. She works in the healthcare sector and has raised a family here. Yet, upon returning from a trip abroad, she was detained by ICE at San Francisco International Airport and held in custody for 17 days. The reason? A decades-old, expunged criminal conviction—long buried and never before a problem—flagged her as deportable under U.S. immigration law.

Ward’s case has drawn national attention and outcry from immigrant rights advocates, with many calling her detention unjust and emblematic of systemic issues in immigration enforcement.

The Legal Distinction: Green Card vs. Citizenship

Doe’s  ordeal highlights a critical legal truth: lawful permanent residents (green card holders) are not immune from deportation. While they can live and work in the U.S., travel, and enjoy many rights, they do not have the full legal protections that citizenship affords.

“Citizenship is a legal firewall,” said immigration attorney Brian Figeroux. “Once you’re a citizen, you cannot be deported for old offenses or face the kind of treatment Ms. Doe endured. The difference in rights is not just symbolic—it’s real, and it matters.”

Citizenship grants the right to vote, sponsor relatives for immigration, and gain full protection from removal proceedings. It also provides peace of mind in an immigration system that can be unpredictable, even for long-term residents.

Consult Before You Apply

Though the benefits of citizenship are significant, the naturalization process can be complex—especially for individuals with any criminal history, even if the record is old or expunged. Experts urge green card holders not to rush the application without understanding how their history may affect their eligibility.

Before applying, individuals are strongly advised to consult with a qualified immigration attorney. One recommended resource is the Law Firm of Figeroux & Associates, which specializes in immigration law and has helped many permanent residents navigate the path to citizenship safely and successfully.

“Many people don’t realize that applying for citizenship can actually trigger a review of your entire immigration history,” said Brian Figeroux, senior attorney at the firm. “If there’s something in your past—even something resolved decades ago—it can resurface during your application and lead to unexpected consequences, including deportation proceedings.”

A Wake-Up Call for Millions

Jane Doe’s experience has left many permanent residents questioning their own legal security. Her case is a sobering reminder that even decades of lawful residence, family ties, and public service don’t offer complete protection without citizenship.

An estimated 9 million lawful permanent residents in the U.S. are eligible to naturalize but have not done so. Whether due to fear, financial concerns, or lack of legal guidance, many remain at risk.

For those unsure about the process, consulting with an experienced immigration law firm—like Figeroux & Associates—can help assess eligibility, identify any potential issues, and create a roadmap to secure citizenship with confidence.

For legal advice on filing for citizenship or any other issue, please call 855-768-8845 or visit www.askthelawyer.us to schedule an appointment.

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