Robert Panton, who lived 50 years in the U.S., faces deportation after rebuiling his life post-prison
Robert Panton, a Jamaican immigrant who lived in the U.S. for over 50 years, faces deportation despite rebuilding his life after 25+ years in prison. His case has sparked outrage, especially in Harlem.
Robert Servio Panton, a Jamaican immigrant who has lived in the United States for over five decades, is facing an imminent deportation order. His case has sparked outrage in Harlem, where he is known for his community work after serving more than 25 years in prison. Despite successfully reintegrating into society, Panton was detained by ICE agents on March 25, based on a pending order from 2021.
Panton's situation reflects the ongoing tensions between U.S. immigration policies and the rights of rehabilitated immigrants. His family, neighbors, and civil rights organizations are fighting to prevent his deportation to Jamaica, a country he left as a young child. His legal defense argues that he has fully complied with all conditions set after his release.
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Why is Robert Panton facing deportation in the U.S.?
Robert Panton's legal troubles began in 1994 when he was sentenced to life in prison for conspiring to distribute heroin. During his incarceration, he participated in rehabilitation and personal development programs, which led to his release on bond in August 2020. However, in January 2021, an immigration judge issued a deportation order, citing his initial conviction as grounds for expulsion.
According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Panton exhausted all available appeals and was expected to leave the U.S. voluntarily. Since he did not, he became subject to detention again. Olivia Abrecht, an attorney from the National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC), states that her client never violated ICE's conditions and believes the government's claims are seriously flawed.
The controversy surrounding Robert Panton's case
Panton’s legal process has been complicated by accusations that both he and his defense strongly deny: alleged ties to the Black Guerrilla Family, a prison gang. Despite years of legal proceedings, Panton was never formally charged with this affiliation, reinforcing his claim of innocence.
In recent interviews, Panton has insisted that he was never part of any criminal organization and could have been mistaken for someone else. His son, Dajon Panton, who works as a police officer in New York, has praised his father’s journey of personal growth and his commitment to at-risk youth and elderly people in Harlem. To his family and community, Robert stands as a symbol of redemption and positive transformation.
How deportations of immigrants works in the U.S.
Robert Panton’s case is part of a larger trend in which thousands of immigrants face deportation even after rebuilding their lives. Deportations in the U.S. continue to fuel intense debates, especially when they impact individuals who have significantly contributed to their communities.
Current immigration policies allow individuals with criminal backgrounds, regardless of the time that has passed or their rehabilitation, to be deemed deportable. Human rights organizations criticize this stance, arguing that it denies second chances to those who have shown successful reintegration.
In 2025, U.S. deportations have been marked by significant changes in immigration policies, especially under the current administration. Here’s how the process currently works:
- Accelerated Deportations: Policies now allow for swift deportations, particularly for specific groups, under laws like the Foreign Enemies Act. These deportations can occur without a prior judicial hearing.
- Increased Raids: ICE has intensified raids in major cities such as Chicago, New York, Los Angeles, and Miami. These operations target immigrant communities, prioritizing individuals with criminal records.
- Sanctuary Cities: Although some cities and states, such as Illinois, have sought to protect immigrants through sanctuary policies, these have faced legal challenges from the federal government.
- Immigrant Rights: Despite strict policies, immigrants have the right to be notified and challenge their deportation in certain cases. However, the conditions for appeal can be complex, with requirements to file legal appeals in specific states.