E.J.C.C. v. Joyce

The New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU) and The Door’s Legal Services Center filed an emergency habeas petition on behalf of E.J.C.C., a 16-year-old Bronx high schooler who U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents illegally arrested and detained when appearing for a mandatory, routine ICE check in. Despite having protective SIJ status, which is reserved for minors abused, neglected, or abandoned by a parent, and despite his compliance with all government orders, ICE detained E.J.C.C. and is attempting to rapidly deport him to dangerous conditions in Ecuador. 

The suit argues that detaining minors like E.J.C.C. undermines the very purpose of SIJ and violates the Due Process Clause, the Fourth Amendment, and the Administrative Procedure Act.