The Daily Journal — Karliana Perdomo Gotopo, a young Venezuelan immigrant, senior Business student, and member of the women’s soccer team at Cleary University, remains in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) after officers arrested her during a traffic stop in Detroit.
Perdomo arrived in the United States as a teenager. Her detention has galvanized the university and her teammates, who have launched an intensive fundraising and public advocacy campaign to secure her release ahead of an upcoming bond hearing.
According to a CNN report, conflicting accounts of Perdomo Gotopo’s immigration status have put federal authorities and the university at odds.
A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) told CNN that Perdomo entered the United States “illegally” on September 18, 2022, and that U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) initially detained her. However, the spokesperson argued that the Joe Biden administration later released her “into our country without any form of vetting.” The DHS, which classifies Perdomo as an “illegal alien from Venezuela,” added that “she will remain in ICE custody pending her immigration proceedings. She will receive full due process.”
Cleary University, however, defended the legality of Perdomo’s status in an official statement sent to media outlets.
“Perdomo resides in the United States under Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and has applied for asylum in accordance with U.S. immigration law (…). She has built a life in Michigan through her education, employment, and involvement in the community,” CNN reported.
Regarding TPS protections for Venezuelan nationals, the network noted that the program currently faces a unique situation under the Donald Trump administration. The government revoked the 2021 designation, while the 2023 designation remains valid for certain beneficiaries through October 2026.
Team launches campaign: “She is part of our family”
Following Perdomo’s detention on May 26, members of the Cleary Cougars women’s soccer team launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover her legal defense expenses. The university endorsed and promoted the fundraising effort through its digital platforms and official website.
Alan Drimmer, President of Cleary University, expressed the full support of the institution’s leadership for the student, who previously graduated “with honors from Western International High School in Detroit and earned an associate degree while playing soccer at St. Clair Community College.”
“We are aware of the situation affecting Cleary University student-athlete Karliana Perdomo, and we are deeply concerned for her well-being and that of her family during this difficult time. Karliana is a highly valued member of our university community and our women’s soccer program,” the university president said.
With information from CNN.
