62-Year-Old Man Faces Deportation for Decades-Old Drug Offense

By Brian Cole

Published on February 01, 2007

Gemayel has fought deportation since his release from prison in 1985. He is part of a prominent Lebanese political family and says he fears violence if deported. His first cousin, a Lebanese politician, was recently assassinated there.

Gemayel was set to return to Lebanon — only to be prevented by the war there last summer. He was then again set to return — at his own expense — only to be arrested just days before leaving, his daughter said.

His arrest occurred when he tried to collect $5,000 in bail he’d paid at the beginning of his deportation case. He has since been held at the Suffolk County House of Correction.

U.S. District Judge William C. Young gave Gemayel 30 days to decide whether he will appeal his deportation. Gemayel would be required to stay in jail during the appeal, forcing him to weigh his options: stay in jail and fight deportation or not appeal and return to Lebanon.

Gemayel’s daughter said he would likely return to Lebanon.

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