Columbia University protester released after one year in immigration custody
Key Takeaways
- Leqaa Kordia, a Palestinian woman arrested during Columbia University protests, was released on $100,000 bond after about a year in U.S. immigration detention.
- DHS (Department of Homeland Security) says she overstayed a student visa that was terminated in 2022; her lawyers say she was targeted for pro-Palestinian activism.
- Authorities also reviewed funds she sent overseas; an immigration judge found "overwhelming evidence" she was truthful about the transfers.
- Kordia alleges harsh treatment in detention, including being chained to a bed and poor conditions; it has been reported that she was hospitalized after a seizure.
- Her release allows her to return to New Jersey while removal proceedings continue; the case highlights risks for international students and protest participants.
Background
Leqaa Kordia, 33, was first arrested during mass demonstrations outside Columbia University in April 2024 and was later detained again in March 2025 during a routine immigration check-in. DHS says Kordia overstayed a student visa that was terminated in 2022 “for lack of attendance”; student visas (commonly F-1 for academic students) require maintaining enrollment and are monitored through SEVIS, the federal student tracking system. The detentions came amid a broader enforcement push against international student protesters, a move credited publicly to the current administration’s effort to "restore the rule of law," according to a DHS statement.
Legal claims and detention
Federal officials also examined money Kordia sent overseas, alleging possible support to individuals in nations hostile to the U.S., while Kordia and family members say the transfers were for relatives. It has been reported that an immigration judge found "overwhelming evidence" that she was truthful about the funds. At a third bail hearing the judge described the government's arguments as "disingenuous" and ordered release on a $100,000 bond; immigration bonds allow detained noncitizens to await proceedings outside custody but do not end removal (deportation) cases. Kordia has not been criminally charged; her case remains in immigration court.
Human impact and what this means now
Kordia says she suffered poor treatment in detention and it has been reported that she was hospitalized after a seizure and alleged being chained to a bed; these are serious humanitarian claims that civil-rights and immigrant-rights advocates frequently raise about long immigration detentions. For international students and recent arrivals, the case is a caution: keep immigration status current, respond quickly to school and DHS notices, and be aware that routine check-ins can escalate into detention. Practically, affected people should consult an immigration attorney, keep clear records of attendance and financial transfers, and prepare for possible high bond amounts if detained.
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