A recent case has brought to light the challenges green card holders may face when returning to the United States from international travel. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detained a Filipino green card holder, Sonny Lasquite, upon his return from a vacation after residing in the US for 23 years. This incident has raised concerns about the risks lawful permanent residents encounter due to previous legal issues and immigration enforcement policies.
Sonny Lasquite, who has lived in the US for over two decades and worked as a banquet server in Las Vegas, was taken into custody at Charlotte Douglas Airport on July 28, 2025. His detention stems from a narcotics-related incident from 2012, when he was charged with possession of controlled substances. Despite helping the government to arrest narcotics co-conspirators and receiving a reduced sentence, ICE flagged this past case in their federal database, leading to his arrest upon reentry.
This situation highlights the stringent measures ICE has adopted in recent years toward immigration enforcement. Lawful permanent residents are increasingly vulnerable to detention at points of entry due to historical criminal records, regardless of the time elapsed or rehabilitation efforts. Lasquite is currently held at the Stewart Detention Center in Georgia while his case undergoes review.
The impact on families reliant on detained green card holders for financial and caregiving support is significant. Cases like Lasquite’s emphasize the human side of immigration enforcement and have generated calls for clearer policies and protections for long-term residents with past legal issues.
This detention is not an isolated incident. Similar stories have emerged, such as a Washington state green card holder detained at SeaTac Airport returning from the Philippines, and a New Zealand woman awaiting green card approval held at the US-Canada border. These episodes reflect heightened scrutiny by ICE and Customs and Border Protection (CBP), particularly where prior convictions or immigration status questions exist.
Key Reasons Green Card Holders Face Detention at Airports:
- Previous criminal convictions, even those long resolved, can trigger detention.
- Immigration enforcement policies have tightened in recent years, increasing risk.
- Travelers may be flagged due to database alerts or mistaken identity.
- Issues of fraud or misrepresentation in green card applications can also provoke detainment.
For green card holders, it is crucial to be aware of these risks before traveling internationally. Carrying proof of ties to the US, consulting immigration attorneys about past legal issues, and preparing documentation can help mitigate potential problems at border crossings.
As enforcement continues to evolve, green card holders must remain vigilant to avoid unexpected detention. If you or someone you know faces such challenges, seeking legal counsel promptly is essential.
Stay informed and prepared to protect your rights when traveling. If you have experiences or questions about this topic, feel free to share your thoughts below.