December 16, 2009
Feds to stop detaining asylum seekers
Suzanne GamboaThe Obama administration says it will stop detaining asylum seekers who have a credible fear of persecution in their home countries.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement director John Morton says beginning Jan. 4, asylum seekers can temporarily enter the U.S. if they meet certain criteria.
They must establish their identities, they cannot be dangerous or a flight risk, and they must have a credible fear of persecution or torture.
Currently, foreigners who come to the U.S. without valid documents can be immediately deported. Many are detained while their asylum requests are considered.
The Associated Press