Vermont Judge Orders Release of Detained Columbia Student
A Vermont federal judge ordered the release of Mohsen Mahdawi, a Palestinian green-card holder and Columbia University student, who had been detained by the Trump administration for deportation despite facing no criminal charges. The judge ruled that the government failed to justify Mahdawi’s continued detention, citing a lack of evidence suggesting he was a flight risk or danger, and noting that his detention could chill protected speech. Mahdawi’s release is pending the resolution of his case, allowing him to continue his studies and legal representation. This decision follows legal challenges by other Palestinian activists facing similar deportation orders based on an obscure foreign policy statute. The case highlights concerns about the potential for retaliatory actions against those advocating for Palestinian human rights.
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood