Tufts University doctoral student Rümeysa Öztürk has been released from a Louisiana immigration detention facility following a federal judge’s order. Öztürk had been detained for six weeks, sparking national concern over the Trump administration’s treatment of international students, particularly Muslim academics.
Judge William Sessions of the U.S. District Court in Vermont ordered her release, citing significant concerns over due process and First Amendment violations. The only evidence presented against Öztürk was an opinion article she co-wrote criticizing Israel’s actions in Gaza.
“There is no evidence here,” Sessions stated in court. He also noted Öztürk’s deteriorating asthma condition and her need to continue her doctoral studies as factors influencing the decision.
Appearing via video from the South Louisiana ICE Processing Center, Öztürk responded calmly to questions about her health. She said her asthma had worsened due to exposure to cleaning chemicals and the stressful environment in detention.
The government did not call any witnesses or cross-examine Öztürk. Federal prosecutors maintained that the Vermont court lacked jurisdiction, but both Sessions and the Second Circuit Court of Appeals rejected that argument.
Under the court order, Öztürk is now free to live in Massachusetts and travel to Vermont for legal proceedings. Her next court appearance is scheduled for May 22, where the judge will hear arguments on her claim that her constitutional rights were violated—separate from any deportation proceedings.
Judge Sessions refused a government request to restrict Öztürk’s travel, citing her dedication to her academic career and the absence of any evidence of criminal behavior.
Tufts University expressed support, saying they looked forward to Öztürk resuming her studies. “Nothing in her op-ed violated our policies or values,” said university spokesman Mike Rodman.
Öztürk’s arrest on March 25 came just days after her visa was quietly revoked. Her supporters say the arrest and transfer to a facility over 1,500 miles away was a retaliatory act targeting her political views.
Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell called the release “a welcome step toward justice,” while noting the legal battle is far from over. Congressional leaders including Senators Ed Markey and Elizabeth Warren also condemned Öztürk’s detention, calling it an egregious violation of her rights.
Friends and faculty at Tufts described Öztürk as a compassionate and courageous student leader. “She might appear shy, but she has a boldness when it matters,” said Najiba Akbar, a former Muslim chaplain at Tufts.
Legal experts and civil rights advocates see her release as a symbolic victory, highlighting concerns about freedom of speech and academic freedom under tightened immigration policies.