Filipino National Granted Cancellation of Removal by US Court
A U.S. court has approved the petition for cancellation of removal for Lewelyn Dixon, a Filipino national, resulting in her release from immigration detention after nearly three months. This significant legal decision was confirmed by the Philippine Embassy in Washington on May 31.
Lewelyn Dixon, a 64-year-old Filipino green card holder, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) earlier this year while returning to Seattle from the Philippines. Her detention was linked to previous convictions, including embezzlement and theft. The court hearing took place in Tacoma, Washington, on May 29, where the petition for cancellation of removal was granted.
Consular Support During Legal Proceedings
Throughout the hearing, representatives from the Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco provided consular assistance to Dixon. They ensured her rights were respected and later met with her privately to offer welfare support sanctioned by the Department of Foreign Affairs. The Consulate General welcomed the court’s ruling, calling it a positive outcome for Dixon, her family, and friends.
“The Consulate welcomes the court’s decision granting her petition for cancellation of removal and ordering her release,” officials said. The Philippine government, through its embassy and consulates in the U.S., reaffirmed its commitment to protect Filipino nationals regardless of their immigration status.
Government Commitment to Filipino Nationals Abroad
The Philippine Embassy emphasized that it continues to provide consular assistance to all Filipinos abroad, respecting U.S. immigration laws while advocating for the rights of its citizens. “The Philippine Government… remains committed to providing consular assistance to all Filipino nationals regardless of their immigration status while respecting the right of the United States to enforce its own domestic laws, including those on immigration,” the Embassy stated.
Moreover, the Consulate General underscored its adherence to international law and its responsibility to assist Filipinos in line with the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations and other agreements. It also highlighted the importance of respecting the host country’s laws and regulations.
Background of the Case
During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Dixon was convicted in 2001 for embezzling around $6,500 from a bank where she worked as a vault teller. A decade later, she was convicted of theft after unknowingly taking items she had left behind while shopping at Walmart. Despite these past offenses, the court’s decision favored her petition for cancellation of removal.
Lewelyn Dixon’s release marks a notable moment for Filipino nationals facing immigration challenges in the United States. It underscores the crucial role of diplomatic missions in safeguarding the rights and welfare of their citizens abroad.
For more news and updates on Filipino nationals abroad, visit Filipinokami.com.