Ohio Chaplain Freed from Jail as DHS Drops Deportation Case
Ayman Soliman, an Egyptian chaplain detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for allegedly providing material support to terrorists, was released from an Ohio jail on September 19, 2025. According to court documents, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) dropped its deportation case against him, citing errors and inconsistencies in the government's evidence.
Soliman, who had been working as a chaplain at Cincinnati Children's Hospital, was detained by ICE in June 2024. He was accused of providing material support to terrorists, but his supporters claimed that the charges were baseless and raised questions about counterterrorism powers in immigration court. "This is beyond my dreams," Soliman told ProPublica on his release from jail. "I'm grateful for the support of my community and the efforts of my lawyers."
The decision to drop the deportation case was met with relief by Soliman's supporters, who had been advocating for his release for months. According to Ahmed Elkady, a volunteer with Immigration Ohio, which provided support to Soliman during his detention, "Ayman is a dedicated public servant who has helped countless families in need. His release is a testament to the power of community advocacy and the importance of due process."
The case against Soliman was marked by controversy from the start. Court filings revealed that DHS had relied on questionable evidence, including testimony from an informant with a history of making false statements. The government's case also raised concerns about the use of counterterrorism powers in immigration court, where defendants often lack access to counsel and due process.
Soliman's release marks a significant victory for his supporters, who had been pushing for his release since his detention last year. According to Hannah Allam, a reporter with ProPublica, "The decision to drop the deportation case is a welcome development, but it also highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in immigration court."
As Soliman begins his new life outside of jail, he remains committed to serving his community. "I'm grateful to be reunited with my family and friends," he said. "I look forward to continuing my work as a chaplain and advocating for justice and compassion in our society."
This story was compiled from reports by ProPublica and ProPublica.
