Man who faced deportation after overturned murder conviction can stay in the United States, judge rules | CNN

A man in ICE custody since his murder conviction was overturned last year can stay in the United States, an immigration judge has ruled. Subramanyam Vedam, 64, spent over 40 years in prison before his conviction was vacated in August. A day after the charges were dropped, he was taken into custody by Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Despite Thursday’s decision, Vedam won’t be released right away. He and his attorney still must file a bond request. The Department of Homeland Security has until May 4 to appeal. Vedam demonstrated personal transformation and growth in prison, dedicating himself to enriching others’ lives through his academic study and mentoring four nieces he came to know only behind bars, Immigration Judge Adam Panopoulos said Thursday. After weighing Vedam’s contributions while incarcerated, the judge said the court saw “the last 44 years” as part of “a new journey” in which he found purpose in the United States. The judge also said he was struck by Vedam’s “desire to start his life fresh” at the age of 64. Vedam said in a statement he was “grateful” for the judge’s decision and thankful for the support of his family and friends. “I