German Green Card Holder Fabian Schmidt Detained at Boston Airport: Family Seeks Answers:

Fabian Schmidt, a 34-year-old German national and lawful U.S. green card holder residing in New Hampshire, was detained by immigration officials at Boston's Logan Airport on March 7. He was returning from a trip to Luxembourg when officials allegedly arrested and interrogated him before transferring him to the Donald W. Wyatt Detention Facility in Rhode Island.

Family Unaware of Detention Reasons

According to Newsweek, Schmidt, who has lived in the U.S. since his teenage years, was reportedly strip-searched and subjected to a harsh interrogation. Despite his recently renewed green card and no known legal issues, his family remains unaware of the reasons for his detention.

His partner had gone to pick him up at the airport but waited four hours before notifying authorities when Schmidt failed to arrive. The family is actively working to secure his release and seeking explanations for his detention.

Allegations of Abusive Treatment

Schmidt's mother, Astrid Senior, expressed deep concerns over her son's treatment in custody. She stated that immigration officers subjected him to humiliating and abusive treatment, alleging that he was forcefully stripped, interrogated, and given a cold shower.

"He hardly got anything to drink. And then he wasn't feeling very well and he collapsed," Senior told Newsweek.

Schmidt had legally reissued his green card in 2023 after reporting a lost card, yet his document was flagged upon reentry to the U.S.

CBP Denies Allegations, Suggests Possible Drug Charges

Hilton Beckham, Assistant Commissioner of Public Affairs for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), refuted the allegations of abuse. "These claims are blatantly false with respect to CBP," he told Newsweek.

He further hinted at a possible link to drug-related charges, stating, "When an individual is found with drug-related charges and tries to reenter the country, officers will take proper action."

Beckham added that travelers violating visa terms or other statutes could face detention and removal. However, he cited federal privacy regulations as a reason for withholding details about Schmidt's case.

Public Concern Over Immigration Policies

Schmidt’s detention has reignited debates over immigration enforcement, particularly regarding the treatment of lawful residents. Critics argue that immigration policies under former President Donald Trump have led to increased scrutiny of even permanent residents without criminal records.

While Trump’s administration primarily focused on deporting undocumented individuals with criminal records, recent incidents suggest that lawful immigrants, including green card holders, are also facing enforcement actions.

Schmidt’s case remains unresolved, with his family pushing for transparency and legal recourse to secure his release.