Overview

• Aditya Harsono, an Indonesian national on a student visa, was detained by ICE in March 2025, allegedly due to a 2022 misdemeanor graffiti conviction and dismissed protest arrest in 2021.
• A federal judge ruled on May 14, 2025, that Harsono’s detention violated his First Amendment rights and was likely retaliation for his social justice advocacy, including support for Black Lives Matter and Palestinian rights.
• The court found no evidence supporting claims that Harsono posed a public safety threat, labeling the government's explanations as inconsistent and pretextual.
• Harsono remains in custody as of May 15, 2025, despite the judge’s order for immediate release under previously set bond conditions, as DHS appeals the bond decision.
• It is unclear whether removal proceedings against Harsono will continue, raising broader concerns about immigration enforcement practices and free speech protections.