Opinion ID: 780167
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: INS Removal Proceedings

Text: 4 When the United States Parole Commission granted parole to Theodoropoulos on August 26, 1999, the INS immediately took custody of him and began deportation proceedings. On September 10, 1999, Theodoropoulos appeared before an Immigration Judge (IJ) for a removal hearing. Theodoropoulos asked the IJ for relief from deportation based on sections 234, suspension of deportation, and 212(c), waiver of deportation, of the INA. The IJ informed Theodoropoulos that the 1996 IIRIRA replaced both sections with § 240A, cancellation of removal, codified at 8 U.S.C. § 1229b, which did not provide relief to aliens who, like Theodoropoulos, had been convicted of an aggravated felony. See 8 U.S.C. § 1229b(b) (2001). The court adjourned the proceedings until the next morning to allow Theodoropoulos to consider the Government's evidence. 5 At the hearing the following day, the judge found Theodoropoulos ineligible for any form of relief, and ordered his removal to Greece. The IJ explained the consequences of his ruling as follows: 6 Q: I have found that you are statutorily ineligible for any form of relief. I have found you are removable as charged and I have ordered your removal to Greece. If you disagree with my decision, sir, you may appeal it to a higher court, to the Board of Immigration Appeals, or if you are satisfied with my decision, you may accept it today as final. Do you wish to appeal my decision, sir, or accept it? 7 A: No, Your Honor, I want to be removed as soon as possible to my country. 8 Q: So, you accept my decision as final? 9 A: Yes, yes, I do. 10 Q: Government? 11