Reza Zavvar, a 52-year-old green card holder who has lived in the U.S. for four decades, was detained by federal immigration agents while walking his dog near his home in Maryland on June 28. Originally from Iran, Zavvar is now being held at a detention facility in Texas, according to his family.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said Zavvar was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) due to a previous criminal conviction and a long-standing deportation order.
Deportation Order Dates Back to 2007
DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin told Newsweek that Zavvar is considered “a criminal illegal alien from Iran” because of a past conviction for attempted possession of a controlled substance. A final removal order was issued against him in 2007.
“He had nearly 20 years to leave voluntarily,” McLaughlin said. “The Trump administration will not ignore the rule of law. Criminal illegal aliens are not welcome in the U.S.”
Long-Term Resident With Complicated History
Zavvar legally arrived in the U.S. at age 12 to pursue an education. According to his family and attorney, he later obtained a green card and built his life in America.
However, a misdemeanor marijuana charge from the 1990s led to immigration complications. In 2004, Zavvar was stopped at a U.S. port of entry, which triggered proceedings that resulted in a removal order in 2007.
He was later granted “withholding of removal” to Iran, a form of relief given when deportation would pose danger. Despite this protection, Zavvar has been detained amid the Trump administration’s crackdown on immigration.
Part of a Broader Immigration Sweep
The administration has ramped up enforcement efforts, targeting not only undocumented individuals but also green card holders and visa applicants with prior convictions.
Zavvar is among dozens of legal residents reportedly detained in recent ICE operations.
Family Shocked and Distressed
Zavvar’s mother, Firouzeh Firouzabadi, told NBC4 Washington that agents showed up at her home holding his dog, Duke. “My heart sank. I thought maybe a car hit him,” she said. “I was shaking.”
He was initially taken to Baltimore, then transferred to Texas. His sister, Maryam Zavvar, said the family has received little information. “We don’t know why he’s being held so far away. We’re terrified,” she said.
Deportation Destination Unclear
Zavvar’s attorney said the deportation may not be to Iran. Removal orders reportedly list Romania or Australia, though it’s unclear why. The family is now pursuing legal options to stop the deportation.
“He’s everyone’s favorite,” said friend Bany Alavi. “You can trust him with anything. He’s a good man.”
Zavvar’s case has sparked growing fears among immigrant communities, who worry that even longtime legal residents are no longer safe under the current enforcement policies.
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Katie is a senior who has been on staff for three years. Her favorite type of stories to write is reviews and features. Katie’s favorite ice cream flavor is strawberry.
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