Santa Monica College Student Apprehended By ICE, Deported: SMC

SANTA MONICA, CA — A Santa Monica College student was recently deported after being apprehended by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, the college announced this week.

The college issued a statement in the wake of social media posts regarding the incident, which happened off campus. "We can confirm that there has been no federal immigration enforcement presence on any of Santa Monica College's campuses," reads the statement.

The student, who was not identified by the college, was apprehended by ICE on May 5 in West Los Angeles near his home. "He was summarily deported and we have confirmed that he is physically safe and plans on seeking legal counsel," the college wrote.

"We recognize the fear, anxiety, and uncertainty many in the college community may be feeling, especially — at this time — undocumented/immigrant students, and those from mixed-status families. Santa Monica College remains committed to upholding an inclusive teaching-learning environment where all students may pursue their educational goals, irrespective of immigration status," reads the statement.

Officials did not indicate details about the student's immigration status, his nationality or the country to which he was deported.

The college offered information to the community about its established processes in the event of federal immigration enforcement presence on-campus and related resources on its website.