2 Fresno leaders call for release of Pismo's manager in ICE custody

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Two Fresno city leaders are now joining the effort to gain the release of the manager of Pismo's Restaurant from an ICE detention center in Bakersfield.

City Council President Mike Karbassi and council member Annalisa Perea sent a joint letter calling for the release of Sam "Psalm" Behpoor.

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The husband and father has been in ICE custody for more than two months after being detained on June 23.

He had previously served time for non-aggravated burglary when he was 18, more than 20 years ago.

Back in May, Behpoor filed to reinstate his green card but was detained a month later.

Karbassi says the non-violent conviction should not erase Behpoor's contributions to the community, adding, "Just as our forefathers were given the chance to rise, rebuild, and thrive, Psalm deserves the same grace, to continue the dream that has defined generations of Americans before him."