JUDGE INDEFINITELY DELAYS DEPORTATION OF THAI TODDLER A federal judge has indefinitely delayed the deportation of a three-year-old Thai boy who was brought to the US as part of a scheme to attempt to illegally enter the US. The boy, who was allegedly sold by his mother, has also been found to be HIV positive.
Officials initially planned for the boy’s grandparents to take custody of him and return with him to Thailand. However, Thai activists in Los Angeles, where the boy entered, have protested this plan, arguing that he should not be returned until there are assurances that he will receive proper care in Thailand and will not again be used in smuggling efforts. They are also concerned that his HIV status will make it nearly impossible for him to have a normal life in Thailand.
Along with delaying the boy’s deportation, the judge also said that the boy’s court appointed guardian could file an asylum application for him. This will inevitably create comparisons with the Elian Gonzalez case, in which the federal courts upheld the INS position that in most cases, only a parent can apply for asylum for a child. The Thai boy does not have parents and many are closely watching to see if the INS tries to extend its “Elian Doctrine” to cases involving grandparents. < Back | Next > Disclaimer: This newsletter is provided as a public service and not intended to establish an attorney client relationship. Any reliance on information contained herein is taken at your own risk. | 
