Is a 40-Year Wrongful Imprisonment Leading to Deportation for This US Man?

Published: 2025-10-18 21:00:16 | Category: world
Subramanyam "Subu" Vedam, who spent 43 years in prison for a crime he did not commit, is now facing deportation to India, a country he barely knows. Despite being exonerated for the murder of his former roommate, Mr Vedam was detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) due to a longstanding deportation order that remains in place due to a past drug conviction. His family and legal team are now fighting for his release amidst a complex legal battle.
Last updated: 27 October 2023 (BST)
Key Takeaways
- Subramanyam Vedam spent 43 years in prison for a wrongful conviction.
- He was exonerated following the discovery of new evidence.
- ICE has detained him due to a prior deportation order.
- His family is advocating for his release based on his rehabilitation and lack of ties to India.
- Mr Vedam's case highlights the complexities of immigration law following wrongful convictions.
Background of the Case
In 1980, Subramanyam Vedam was convicted of the murder of Tom Kinser, a 19-year-old college student. Kinser's body was discovered nine months after his disappearance, leading to a series of events that culminated in Vedam's arrest. On the day Kinser went missing, he had given Vedam a ride, which led to a series of circumstantial evidence linking Vedam to the crime.
Despite a lack of physical evidence tying him to the murder, Vedam was denied bail and labelled a flight risk. He was sentenced to life in prison, alongside a concurrent sentence for a drug offence. Throughout his incarceration, Vedam consistently maintained his innocence and fought for his exoneration.
New Evidence and Exoneration
After decades of appeals, new evidence surfaced that ultimately exonerated Vedam. In early October 2023, Centre County District Attorney Bernie Cantorna announced that the state would not pursue a retrial against him. This was a pivotal moment for Vedam and his family, who had long believed in his innocence.
The announcement marked a significant victory, yet it was short-lived. Vedam's exoneration was overshadowed by the action taken by ICE, which cited a deportation order stemming from Vedam's previous convictions.
The Deportation Order Explained
ICE has stated that their actions were based on a lawful deportation order established in 1988, stemming from Vedam's murder and drug convictions. Although he has been exonerated for the murder, the drug conviction still stands, and ICE is using this as a basis for his detention and pending deportation.
Mr Vedam's family is fighting to have this order reconsidered, arguing that the circumstances have changed significantly since the order was issued. They contend that his long incarceration, good behaviour, and contributions to fellow inmates should be taken into account during the immigration proceedings.
The Family's Plight
For Vedam’s family, this situation is particularly painful. His sister, Saraswathi Vedam, has expressed deep disappointment that they could not embrace him upon his release from prison. Instead, he was taken into custody by ICE, further complicating an already traumatic experience.
Ms Vedam has emphasised the emotional toll of this situation, stating, "It’s almost like having his life stolen twice." She highlights the weak ties Mr Vedam has to India, pointing out that he moved to the United States as a baby and has built his life there.
Legal Challenges Ahead
Mr Vedam’s legal team, led by lawyer Ava Benach, is preparing to challenge the deportation order. They argue that deporting a man who has spent his entire life in the US to a country he barely knows is not only unjust but also represents a continuation of the injustices he has already faced.
The legal process could be complex. The family anticipates filing a motion to reopen his immigration case, which may involve presenting new arguments and evidence demonstrating the changes in circumstances since his original deportation order.
The Importance of Public Awareness
Mr Vedam’s story sheds light on broader issues within the US justice and immigration systems. The intersection of wrongful convictions and immigration law can lead to devastating consequences for individuals who have already suffered unjustly. Advocates argue that cases like Mr Vedam's highlight the need for reforms to protect those who have been wrongfully convicted from facing further injustices.
A Community United
The Vedam family is not facing this battle alone. They are rallying support from the community, where many have expressed their outrage at the prospect of Vedam being deported. Community members are actively advocating for his release, emphasising the positive contributions he made during his time in prison, including mentoring fellow inmates and obtaining three degrees.
The family's determination serves as a reminder of the resilience of those who fight against systemic injustices. They believe that Mr Vedam's story can inspire change and highlight the need for compassion and understanding in the legal system.
Conclusion: What Lies Ahead for Mr Vedam?
The road ahead for Subramanyam Vedam is fraught with challenges. His family is determined to fight against the deportation order, seeking justice not just for him but also for all those wrongfully convicted. As they navigate the complexities of both the legal and immigration systems, they hold onto hope that Mr Vedam's long quest for freedom will lead to a life reunited with his loved ones.
As this situation unfolds, it raises crucial questions about the intersection of justice and immigration. How can systems be changed to prevent similar injustices from occurring in the future? The outcome of Mr Vedam's case may serve as a critical turning point in addressing these pressing issues. #JusticeForSubu #WrongfulConviction #ImmigrationReform
FAQs
What was Subramanyam Vedam convicted of?
Subramanyam Vedam was convicted of the murder of his former roommate, Tom Kinser, and also had a drug offence conviction, which is relevant to his current immigration status.
Why was Vedam exonerated after 43 years?
Vedam was exonerated due to the discovery of new evidence that undermined the original conviction, leading the district attorney to decide not to pursue a retrial.
What is the basis for ICE's deportation order against Vedam?
ICE is enforcing a deportation order issued in 1988, which was based on Vedam’s convictions for murder and a drug offence, despite his recent exoneration for murder.
How is Vedam's family supporting him during this process?
Vedam's family is actively working with legal counsel to challenge the deportation order and advocating for his release based on his good behaviour and lack of ties to India.
What impact does Vedam's case have on immigration reform?
Vedam's case highlights the complexities and potential injustices faced by individuals with wrongful convictions in the immigration system, calling for reforms to prevent similar situations in the future.