New Jersey kebab restaurant owners were detained by ICE. The town flooded the court with letters of support

A New Jersey community is coming together in support of the owners of Jersey Kebab, a well-loved restaurant at 150 Haddon Avenue in Haddon Township after Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detained them. The couple, Emine and Celal Emanet have lived in the U.S. for years, running their small business and actively supporting their neighborhood. On February 25, ICE took them into custody, stating that they were in the country illegally, per NBC Philadelphia. Celal was released with an ankle monitor, but Emine remains detained. Community members gathered to show support by writing letters and sending them to the court, hoping to influence the local officials and judges handling the case, reported NBC News.

The letter-writing campaign was held just down the street from Jersey Kebab, where many community members spoke in favor of the couple. "We are a loving environment in this town," said Isis Williams, the president of a local group advocating for inclusivity and equity, per NBC News. One resident shared how much the couple has contributed to the area, saying, "Emine's a great, great person, runs a great business here on Haddon Ave that we eat at frequently. Has done a lot, especially through COVID, caring for members of the community." For many, Jersey Kebab is a place that brings people together.

Another community member added, "Their business is a beloved establishment that brings both delicious food and beautiful culture that enriches the community." The couple's immigration lawyer explained that they came to the U.S. legally in 2008 from Türkiye on an R1 visa. He emphasized that they had come legally and had options within federal immigration law to seek relief from removal through the court system. "They are a good family. They are not criminals. They entered the U.S. legally," he said. Moreover, Celal applied for a green card before his visa expired. However, his application was denied thrice. News of the couple's detention spread quickly, and community members weren't the only ones speaking out.

Haddon Township Mayor Randy Teague released a statement showing support for the family, as per NJ.com. He said, "We deeply empathize with the family’s pain and are committed to doing everything we can to support them during this challenging time." He continued, "Our hearts are filled with sorrow for the family, and pray for a speedy resolution that allows them to become a part of our community once again." The Emanets have been waiting for a decision on their legal status since 2016, according to a Philadelphia Inquirer report, which cited an interview with the couple’s son, Muhammad Emanet.

ICE has not provided any further details about their detention. An ICE spokesperson said the agency does not comment on operations as a matter of policy. Muhammad posted about the situation on social media, explaining what happened. "My parents are not citizens, but we have a case pending at immigration. We don’t [know] who has reported us as ‘illegals,’ but they have arrested my parents and they will not release them until a court date," he said. A GoFundMe campaign launched by supporters has already raised $318,097 to cover legal fees and help the family during this uncertain time. The Emanets, who have four children between the ages of 13 and 25, remain hopeful for a resolution.