Supporters of detained immigrant Mohamed Naser gathered in downtown Greensboro Friday to call for his release.
More than 100 people assembled at February One Place to protest Naser’s detainment.
Naser was taken into custody about two weeks ago and was scheduled to be released on a $20,000 bond. But U.S. Immigration and Customs officials appealed the decision. He’s currently being held at a Georgia detention center.
State Sen. Michael Garrett, a Guilford County Democrat, blasted the federal government for arresting Naser.
“North Carolina will not — I repeat — will not be a hunting ground for federal agents who think badges give them the right to ignore the United States Constitution,” he said.
Naser’s attorney, Helen Parsonage, says she has filed a writ of habeas corpus in federal court, asking a judge to find his detention unlawful.
Parsonage says authorities have invited Naser to voluntarily deport himself, but he has declined.
*Correction: The caption for the photo on this story has been updated to reflect that Michael Garrett is a state senator rather than a representative.