'Unfathomable': Calif. woman facing deportation for decades-old conviction
Briefly

Cliona Ward, a Santa Cruz resident and green-card holder for 30 years, is facing deportation after being detained at San Francisco International Airport. Her detention is linked to a long-expunged conviction from two decades ago, drawing criticism for the timing and circumstances during a family crisis. As her family seeks legal help with the impending court date, the situation underscores broader issues in the immigration system that often jeopardize long-term residents over outdated legal matters.
Cliona was detained at customs despite her long-standing residency and an expunged conviction, raising concerns about the fairness of the U.S. immigration system.
Cliona's sister highlighted the inappropriate timing of the detention during a family crisis, emphasizing that she has built a stable life and community in the U.S.
The case exemplifies the challenges faced by many immigrants, where historical legal issues resurface without consideration for their current status and contributions.
The family is in urgent need of legal representation as Cliona faces deportation proceedings, despite having lived in the U.S. for nearly three decades.
Read at SFGATE
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