Full Breakdown
79-Year-Old Paul John Bojerski Detained by ICE Amid Complicated Deportation Case
11/22/2025, 3:28:36 AM
Background of Paul John Bojerski
Paul John Bojerski, a 79-year-old grandfather, has been in the United States since he was five years old. Born in a German refugee camp to Polish parents in 1946, he immigrated to the U.S. with his family in 1952 under the Displaced Persons Act of 1948. Although he was granted lawful permanent residency, Bojerski never obtained U.S. citizenship. His immigration status became precarious following criminal convictions in his youth, including a larceny charge and a 1972 conviction for rape, which he contests as a misunderstanding stemming from a fraternity party incident.
Current Detention and Legal Proceedings
On October 30, 2025, Bojerski was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) due to a deportation order issued in 1968. His attorney, David Stoller, argues that deportation is impractical as both Poland and West Germany refused to accept him at the time of the order. Despite complying with a supervision order for 15 years, Bojerski was informed this summer that he must self-deport or face detention. Since his detention, Bojerski's health has deteriorated; he has undergone multiple back surgeries and is now wheelchair-bound. Reports indicate that he suffered a minor concussion after falling in his detention facility.
Legal Complications and Court Hearings
During a recent bond hearing, Judge Romy Lerner expressed concerns about Bojerski's age and health but postponed a decision on his release. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed intentions to appeal any decision that might grant Bojerski bond, indicating that they would issue a new deportation order to a third country if the 1968 order were deemed invalid. This situation underscores the complexities of the current immigration enforcement policies, particularly under the Trump administration's mass deportation campaign, which has seen many individuals with non-violent criminal records facing similar predicaments.
Criticism of Immigration Enforcement
Critics argue that the case of Bojerski exemplifies the impracticalities of strict immigration enforcement. Stoller highlighted that many individuals detained by ICE, including Bojerski, have lived in the U.S. for decades and have established lives and families. "Where's the guy supposed to go? This is really the only country he's ever known," Stoller stated, emphasizing the emotional and logistical challenges of deportation in such cases.
What's Next for Bojerski?
Bojerski's legal team is now pursuing a new application for adjustment of status based on his marriage to a U.S. citizen, aiming to navigate around his criminal record. Stoller has filed a writ of habeas corpus, arguing that there is no valid deportation order against Bojerski. The outcome of these legal maneuvers remains uncertain as the case continues to unfold.
Verbatim Quotes
- “There are situations where it is just impracticable to try and deport them,” — David Stoller, Immigration Attorney
- “no matter what I decide, the government may appeal my decision, which may involve you remaining in detention even if I were to grant the bond.” — Judge Romy Lerner
- “THIS IS REALLY THE ONLY COUNTRY HE’S EVER KNOWN.” — David Stoller, Immigration Attorney
- “WE’RE GOING TO TRY AND GET AROUND IT.” — David Stoller, Immigration Attorney
