In a recent incident that has garnered significant attention, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers detained Emine and Celal Emanet, the proprietors of Jersey Kebab, a cherished family-owned restaurant in Haddon Township, New Jersey. The couple, originally from Turkey, has been integral to the local community since establishing their eatery in 2021. Their unexpected detention has sparked a wave of support from patrons and residents alike.
The Detention Incident
On the morning of February 25, 2025, ICE agents conducted a raid at Jersey Kebab, located at 150 Haddon Avenue. Both Emine and Celal were apprehended during the operation. Their son, Muhammed Emanet, who assists in managing the restaurant, recounted the distressing event:
“When I came in realizing that someone had my mother in handcuffs, that’s when I knew it was the beginning of what we have envisioned for so long.” (NBC Philadelphia)
Following their arrest, Celal was released with an ankle monitor, while Emine was transferred to the Elizabeth Detention Center in North Jersey. The separation has been particularly challenging for the family, especially given their deep roots in the community.
Background on the Emanet Family
Emine and Celal Emanet immigrated to the United States from Turkey nearly two decades ago on valid visas. Over the years, they have diligently worked to regularize their immigration status. Their attorney, Joseph Best, highlighted their ongoing efforts:
“We have been working on their case. Eventually, they will be able to get status, but at this point, they were still out of status.” (NBC Philadelphia)
Despite their unresolved status, the Emanets have made significant contributions to Haddon Township. Jersey Kebab is renowned not only for its Mediterranean cuisine but also for its generosity. The restaurant has a longstanding policy of providing free meals to those in need, embodying the spirit of community support.
Community Response
The detention of the Emanet couple has elicited a profound response from the local community. Patrons and residents have rallied to offer support, both emotionally and financially. Lori Leonard, a local resident, initiated a GoFundMe campaign to assist with legal expenses and to sustain the family’s livelihood during this tumultuous period. The fundraiser has garnered substantial contributions, reflecting the community’s appreciation for the Emanets’ benevolence.
Haddon Township Mayor Randall W. Teague expressed his sentiments regarding the situation:
“Jersey Kebab, a beloved restaurant in our Haddon Township community, has faced a heartbreaking situation that has deeply affected the family and our community.”
The mayor’s remarks underscore the significant impact the Emanet family has had on the local populace.
Legal Proceedings and Next Steps
Attorney Joseph Best is actively seeking Emine’s release from detention. A bond hearing is scheduled for mid-March, though efforts are underway to expedite the process. Best emphasized the couple’s lack of criminal history and their positive standing within the community:
“No one in this family has any sort of criminal record. Certainly not the woman who is being detained. She is not a risk to public safety. She is not a risk to national security.”
The restaurant remains temporarily closed as the family navigates the legal complexities of their situation.
Broader Implications
This incident highlights the challenges faced by immigrant families striving for legal residency in the United States. Despite their contributions to their communities, many encounter prolonged legal battles and uncertainties. The Emanet family’s experience serves as a poignant example of the broader issues within the immigration system.
Community members and local officials continue to advocate for the Emanets, hoping for a swift and favorable resolution that will allow them to resume their lives and continue their valued contributions to Haddon Township. For more details on the legal and community response to ICE detentions, visit New Jersey Monitor.
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