Ohio imam seeks release, citing rights violations at Butler Co. jail

By Farah Siddiqi

The legal team representing a Cincinnati religious leader is asking a federal court to release him from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody in Butler County, citing civil rights concerns.

The case of Ayman Soliman, known locally as the “Interfaith Imam,” is drawing broader attention for what advocates say could set a dangerous legal precedent.

Franchel Daniel, senior staff attorney for the Muslim Legal Fund of America, said Soliman’s detention came after the government’s disputed termination of his asylum status and raises larger concerns for immigrants' rights.

"What the government is doing is just wrong," Daniel asserted. "While this is just one case, the implications are far-reaching. It sets precedent and we don't want that precedent out there."

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has not publicly responded to the habeas petition. The petition alleges Soliman was placed in solitary confinement, denied access to an attorney and has been targeted due to his Muslim faith. A federal judge already issued a Temporary Restraining Order on July 31, barring Soliman's removal from Ohio.

Daniel noted the team is urging the court to restore Soliman’s asylum status and prevent similar treatment of other asylum-seekers across the country.

"The government is playing with people's lives," Daniel contended. "They are using minuscule information to make decisions that are so far-reaching, and that is just not right. That is not the law."

Soliman’s legal team added it expects the federal court to decide soon on the emergency release request. Meanwhile, the case continues in immigration court in Cleveland, where Soliman appears by video from the Butler County Jail.