Category: Our News

Costa Rica’s Constitutional Court Mandated the Release of Foreign Migrants Deported from the US 

On June 25., Costa Rica’s Constitutional Court mandated the release of foreign migrants deported from the US. In February of 2025, roughly 200 migrants from Russia, Iran, China, India, Afghanistan and other Asian and African countries were deported from the US under the Trump Administration to a holding shelter called the Temporary Migrant Care Center (CATEM) in Costa Rica. Almost half of the deported people were children.   

According to NBC News, the deported people at CATEM have been forced to share overcrowded sleeping areas with poor air conditioning. It has also reached over 90°F at CATEM, located in one of tropical Costa Rica’s southernmost parts.  

Costa Rica’s courts decided that the detaining of the deported people was unconstitutional since they were not given proper counsel, information about their immigration status or information to request asylum.   

The Guardian has stated that as of June 24., 28 deported people are still being held in CATEM, including 13 children. Others have either accepted repatriation, left CATEM alone or requested asylum in Costa Rica.   

The Costa Rican government has been given half a month to assess each migrant’s immigration status individually and release them. The government has also been ordered to determine what forms of assistance the migrants may need, including education, housing, health care and other services to help them recover after being detained.   

Additional updates from other sources on this ongoing situation can be expected. 

Sean “Diddy” Combs Will Not Testify or Present Any Witnesses at His Criminal Trial. John Heiderscheidt of Subscription Lawyer Shares His Input.

On June 23., it was announced that Sean “Diddy” Combs will not testify in his ongoing criminal trial in Manhattan, New York. Combs, 55, was initially charged with one count of racketeering conspiracy, one count of sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion and one count of transportation to engage in prostitution in September 2024.  

In April 2025, prosecutors added two more charges: an additional charge of sex trafficking by force and another count of transportation for purposes of prostitution. Combs pleaded not guilty to all five charges. Combs has also been accused of physical and sexual violence towards women and others, bribery, arson, kidnapping, illegal drug distribution and other crimes.  

Opening statements for the trial began on May 12. Since then, the prosecution has had 34 witnesses take the stand against Combs, each recounting their traumatic experiences with Combs and his alleged criminal enterprise. The prosecution has also presented a wide range of evidence, consisting of videos, photos, receipts, phone records, text messages and other forms of evidence to confirm the accusations against Combs.  

John Heiderscheidt, Criminal, Immigration and Civil Law attorney of Subscription Lawyer shares his input on Comb’s decision to not testify:  

 

“The question of whether to testify as a defendant at your own trial is often one of the most important decisions that you will have to face before the case proceeds to the jury. Each case is different and sometimes there can be a benefit to a defendant testifying. However, in my experience, unless there are close factual questions that can only be resolved for the jury through defendant testimony, often the risk is not worth the reward. 

We saw this to be the case in a very popular criminal defense trial recently against former Speaker Madigan in Illinois. After the jury returned a guilty verdict, at the sentencing hearing, the judge specifically referenced Madigan’s testimony as an aggravating factor that led to a more extensive sentence than we saw in the Ed Burke case. 

The lawyers representing Mr. Combs may feel that his testimony would not be helpful to the jury in resolving the limited factual questions before them, and they may not have wanted to risk a more harsh sentence in the event of a conviction on some or all charges,” said Heiderscheidt.

The trial is being presided over by United States District Judge for the Southern District of New York, Arun Subramanian. He has stated that he hopes the trial will be concluded by July 4. Further updates on the case are expected as the trial continues.  

Empowering Migrants: John Heiderscheidt’s Insightful Session on US Immigration Laws

In a heartfelt effort to aid newly arrived migrants, John Heiderscheidt recently conducted an informative session on US immigration laws, addressing a gathering of 70 individuals. This session, held in the vibrant Uptown neighborhood, was more than just a lecture; it was a beacon of hope and guidance for many navigating the complexities of their new lives in the United States.

The event was meticulously organized by Luisette Kraal, a dedicated community leader and co-founder of a free clothing store in Uptown. Kraal has been instrumental in building a robust support network on the North Shore for new arrivals, ensuring they have access to essential resources and information. Her efforts to organize this session exemplify her commitment to supporting migrants in practical and impactful ways.

John Heiderscheidt, with his extensive knowledge of US immigration laws, provided a comprehensive overview of the system. He addressed various legal questions from the attendees, offering clear and precise answers. His ability to break down complex legal jargon into understandable terms was particularly appreciated, as many of the attendees were seeking clarity on their rights and the processes they needed to follow.

One of the main focuses of the session was the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) process. Heiderscheidt explained the steps involved in applying for an EAD, highlighting the importance of this document in enabling migrants to work legally in the US. He detailed the eligibility criteria, the application process, and the necessary documentation required, ensuring that attendees left with a thorough understanding of how to proceed.

Another critical topic discussed was Temporary Protected Status (TPS). Heiderscheidt provided insights into the benefits of TPS, who qualifies for it, and how to apply. This information was crucial for many attendees who are seeking stability and protection in the US while their home countries face crises.

The session was highly interactive, with migrants actively participating and asking questions specific to their situations. Heiderscheidt’s approachable demeanor and willingness to address each query fostered a supportive environment where attendees felt comfortable seeking the information they needed.

Luisette Kraal’s involvement in organizing this session was a testament to her ongoing commitment to the migrant community. Her work, from founding a free clothing store to establishing a support network, has been pivotal in helping new arrivals find their footing. The informational session with Heiderscheidt is just one example of how her initiatives are making a tangible difference in the lives of many.

As the session concluded, the sense of empowerment among the attendees was palpable. Armed with newfound knowledge and resources, they left feeling more confident in their ability to navigate the US immigration system. The collaboration between Heiderscheidt and Kraal demonstrated the profound impact that community-driven initiatives can have on individuals seeking a fresh start in a new country.

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