Governor Gavin Newsom‘s office has officially received a pardon application for Psalm Behpoor, the manager of the Fresno-based restaurant Pismo’s. Behpoor has been held at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility in Bakersfield, California, for over 100 days. His case has drawn attention and concern from friends and community members, highlighting the challenges faced by immigrants in the United States.
According to a friend of Behpoor, Kash Amin, the restaurant manager has been in detention since June 2023, following a request from ICE for an in-person interview. Behpoor was just three years old when he arrived in the United States from Iran. In his youth, he served time for a non-aggravated burglary charge at the age of 18, which occurred more than 20 years ago.
After receiving a call from ICE in June, Behpoor attended the scheduled meeting. Approximately one hour after the interview, he was detained, leading to an outpouring of support from his friends and community. Congressman Jim Costa has also called for answers regarding the circumstances of Behpoor’s detention, further emphasizing the need for transparency in such cases.
As it stands, there is no indication of when Behpoor might be released from detention. The application for a pardon raises questions about the broader implications of immigration enforcement and the treatment of long-time residents with criminal records.
This case reflects ongoing debates surrounding immigration policies in the United States, particularly regarding individuals who have established their lives in the country despite past legal troubles. With the pardon application in process, supporters hope for a favorable outcome that could restore Behpoor’s freedom and allow him to return to his role at Pismo’s. As the situation develops, many are watching closely to see how it unfolds and the potential implications for similar cases across the nation.