A longtime resident of Columbia, Missouri, remains imprisoned in Texas more than a month after he was detained by federal officers. Owen Ramsingh is a green-card holder who immigrated to the U.S. as a child, but he’s now facing deportation due to a drug conviction from when he was a teen.
Owen Ramsingh's absence has taken an emotional toll on members of the community, who have begun organizing to spread awareness about his detainment. When asked for an explanation, a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson called Ramsingh a "criminal alien" and said, "A green card is a privilege, not a right." KBIA’s Lilley Halloran reports on Ramsingh's detainment and why his supporters are hopeful he will return home.
Contact the show at news@kcur.org. Follow KCUR on Instagram and Facebook for the latest news.
Kansas City Today is hosted by Nomin Ujiyediin. This episode was produced by Mackenzie Martin and KCUR Studios, and edited by Gabe Rosenberg, Madeline Fox and Emily Younker.
You can support Kansas City Today by becoming a KCUR member: kcur.org/donate.