A Santa Monica College student was deported by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, school officials confirmed.
The college released a statement saying that officials were made aware of social media posts alleging an SMC student was apprehended by ICE earlier this month.
While investigating the posts, the school learned that the unidentified student was apprehended near his residence in West Los Angeles on May 5.
“He was summarily deported and we have confirmed that he is physically safe and plans on seeking legal counsel,” the SMC statement reads.
The statement did not disclose the nationality of the student nor where he was deported to but did explicitly mention that there has been no federal immigration enforcement presence on any of Santa Monica College’s campuses.
“We recognize the fear, anxiety and uncertainty many in the college community are feeling, especially – at this time – undocumented and immigrant students, and those from mixed-status families,” the school said. “Santa Monica College remains committed to upholding an inclusive teaching-learning environment where all students may pursue their educational goals, irrespective of immigration status.”
More information, including resources for students, can be found within the school’s statement.