ICE Detains Green Card Holder Sharereh Moghadam After Citizenship Interview

A Los Angeles woman was detained by immigration authorities last month. Sharereh Moghadam attended a routine immigration meeting. She was taken into custody by ICE agents immediately afterward.

Her husband, Hooshang Aghdassi, says she held a valid green card. He states she had already passed her U.S. citizenship exam. Instead of a ceremony, she was sent to a detention center in Arizona.

Husband Claims Detention Follows Family Visit to Iran

According to NBC News reports, Moghadam entered the United States legally from Iran. She had all her documentation in order. Her husband believes the detention is related to a recent family trip to Iran.

The couple jointly operates a balloon shop in Studio City. Customers have started a petition for her release. They are urging local lawmakers to intervene in her case.

ICE Contests Narrative, Cites Criminal History

Immigration and Customs Enforcement has publicly challenged the family’s account. An ICE spokesperson told NBC4 that reports of a clean record are “completely FALSE.” The agency stated she is subject to removal under U.S. law.

ICE alleges Moghadam has a documented criminal history. It includes two separate theft convictions between 2015 and 2019. These convictions reportedly render her subject to deportation proceedings.

Her husband vehemently denies these characterizations. He insists she is not a criminal. He described her as a business owner waiting for her citizenship ceremony.

A Family’s Uncertainty and Growing Public Concern

The case highlights the complex nature of U.S. immigration enforcement. Legal permanent residents can still face removal for certain violations. This often leads to lengthy legal battles and family separation.

Aghdassi expressed his deep anguish and confusion. He spoke about losing faith in the American dream. He now hopes to be reunited with his wife soon.

Moghadam remains detained in Phoenix awaiting a hearing. Her situation has sparked local outcry and media attention. It underscores the precarious nature of immigrant status, even for long-term residents.

This case of a green card holder detained by ICE shows the fine line many immigrants walk. The outcome of Sharereh Moghadam’s hearing will be closely watched. It could set a significant precedent for similar cases.

Info at your fingertips-

Who is Sharereh Moghadam?

Sharereh Moghadam is an Iranian-born business owner from Los Angeles. She is a legal permanent U.S. resident with a green card. ICE detained her in August 2025 after an immigration meeting.

Why was she detained by ICE?

Her husband believes it was due to a recent trip to Iran. However, ICE states she was detained due to past theft convictions. The agency says these convictions make her subject to removal from the U.S.

Where is Sharereh Moghadam now?

She is currently being held at an ICE detention facility. The facility is located in Phoenix, Arizona. She awaits a future hearing on her immigration status.

What is her husband saying?

Hooshang Aghdassi says his wife passed her citizenship exam. He claims she has no criminal history. He describes her detention as a shocking and devastating event.

Has there been any public reaction?

Yes, customers of the family’s business have started a petition. They are calling on lawmakers to help secure her release. The case has gained significant local media attention in Los Angeles.

What happens next in her case?

She will have a hearing before an immigration judge. The judge will review ICE’s claims and her legal status. The process could potentially lead to her release or deportation.