The Brian Lehrer Show A Year in ICE Detention
Apr 3, 2026
Leqaa Kordia, a Palestinian activist who endured over a year in ICE custody after protesting, recounts harsh detention conditions and her advocacy for detainees. Sarah Sherman-Stokes, a Boston University law clinical professor and attorney, explains the legal battles, alleged targeted enforcement, and systemic issues driving distant transfers and poor conditions. They discuss protest motivations, nonviolent resistance, and calls for release and reform.
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Journey To Reunite With Her Mother
- Leqaa Kordia came to the U.S. to reunite with her mother after 20+ years apart.
- She enrolled in training in Bergen County, worked as a waitress, and waited years for a visa petition to become current.
Arrest At Newark Check-In And Transfer To Texas
- ICE arrested Leqaa at the Newark field office during a routine immigration check-in.
- Her attorney says ICE targeted her for pro-Palestine advocacy and transferred her far from family to Prairieville, Texas, to limit support and legal access.
Distant Transfers As A Legal Strategy
- Sending detainees to distant facilities is a deliberate government tactic to sever support networks and reduce access to counsel.
- Sarah Sherman-Stokes ties transfers to placement in less favorable legal circuits like the Fifth Circuit.