AP investigation: Documents support claim ICE has detained a mentally ill US citizen since January

An Associated Press review found documents supporting the claim that Phillip James was born in Florida, while federal authorities dispute his citizenship. James remains detained in Indiana as he challenges his removal order and seeks release.

• Phillip James, 39, has been detained at an Indiana ICE facility; his lawyers are appealing an immigration judge’s ruling that he be deported to Jamaica.· 2 sources
• The AP review reported a Florida birth certificate and a 1988 paternity court document supporting the claim that James was born in Orange County in 1987; DHS alleges the birth certificate is fraudulent but provided no evidence in the account.· 2 sources
• James’s lawyers filed a federal petition seeking his release on August 19, and U.S. District Judge Damon Leichty is expected to rule; James is also appealing his removal order.· 2 sources