In early 2025, four German nationals, including permanent resident Fabian Schmidt, were detained for extended periods by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), despite being legally entitled to travel under the ESTA. After returning from Germany, Schmidt faced rigorous interrogation and reported deprivation of basic needs. His detention raised significant legal and ethical questions about the treatment of lawful permanent residents, particularly involving past minor legal issues. Both he and his family expressed feelings of helplessness as they sought clarification on his detention status, while ICE offered limited commentary for legal reasons.
"I feel helpless," Astrid Senior told local media in Boston after her son Fabian Schmidt was detained at Logan Airport on March 7. Senior and Schmidt aren't even tourists, they are Green Card holders..."
His condition worsened to the point that he had to be taken to a local hospital. While ICE confirmed the hospital visit, they told US media they could not comment further on the case for legal reasons.
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