Department of Homeland Security Criticizes Minnesota Pardon

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has voiced strong objections to a recent decision by the Minnesota Board of Pardons, which granted a pardon to a Laotian man with a history of assault convictions. This move is seen as potentially obstructing his longstanding deportation order.

Xayasonethorn Chandy, who entered the U.S. as a legal permanent resident during his childhood, was convicted of assault in 1992. Following that conviction, an immigration judge issued a final removal order for him in 1995.

However, despite this order, Chandy remained in the U.S. and faced further legal issues, culminating in a 2008 conviction for two counts of aggravated assault using a weapon.

DHS argued that the Board’s decision to pardon Chandy might hinder efforts to remove him from the United States.

Lauren Biss, the acting assistant secretary for DHS, expressed her disbelief over the pardon, labeling it “pure insanity” in a statement to a news outlet. She highlighted Chandy’s previous aggravated assault conviction and noted that his green card was revoked as a result of his criminal behavior. Biss pointed out that he had been placed in removal proceedings and had a judge issue a final removal order.

Continuing, she criticized the pardon, suggesting it removes Chandy’s qualifying convictions, thus making it difficult for authorities to facilitate his deportation. Chandy’s legal status was further complicated by his decision to violate U.S. laws after entering the country legally.

In a broader context, DHS reiterated that obtaining a visa or green card is a privilege that can be revoked if laws are broken. They maintain that individuals who violate these laws shouldn’t remain in the country.