#ICEOutOfButler

The ICE Contract at Butler County Jail Must End

In breaking news, Ayman Soliman’s lawyers filed an emergency petition for writ of habeas corpus and request for temporary restraining order in federal court, calling for his immediate release from the Butler County Jail. According to the filing, which names Sheriff Richard Jones as one of the respondents, Ayman was placed into solitary confinement “as a result of targeted harassment due to [his] attempt to practice his religion,” and denied access to counsel.

These serious, constitutional violations are part of a daily pattern and practice at this jail; just listen to Mustapha speak about his experiences. Mustapha is one of the brave men who spoke out while incarcerated here on civil immigration matters during the first Trump administration. He was part of the successful effort to expose abuses and end the first ICE contract there.

Two men from Africa also stood up to Sheriff Jones and his Deputies, filing a lawsuit to demand justice for themselves after they were violently assaulted inside the jail in 2020. The lawsuit remains pending today. Also in 2020, dozens of detained men sent a letter “To: Anyone who will listen to us,” which greatly contributed to the end of the contract in 2021.

At the Ohio Immigrant Hotline, we continue to get disturbing reports about abuse at this jail, and are investigating specific incidents. Contact the Hotline at hotline@ohioimmigrant.org or 419-777-HELP (4357).

Clearly, respect for human rights is not a priority at this jail. The ICE contract must be rescinded.