SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) -- A staffer for San Francisco Assemblymember Catherine Stefani was released from ICE custody Friday after spending more than two weeks in detention.
SF lawmaker’s staffer detained by ICE, calls for his release
Mo, a Field Representative in Stefani’s San Francisco district office, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas on Sept. 17, according to Stefani’s office.
An immigration judge granted Mo bond during a hearing Wednesday, Sept. 30. He was released from ICE custody Friday.
“Today, Ho Yin Mo was released from detention, and our hearts are full,” Stefani said in a statement. “Mo’s release confirms what we knew all along: He is a lawful public servant and a cherished part of our Bay Area family, and he should never have been detained.”
“I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for the tireless work of Assemblymember Stefani, my legal counsel and every individual who advocated on my behalf,” Mo said. “I’m excited to return to my work serving San Franciscans, who have shown time and again what community truly means.”
Mo has worked in Stefani’s district office since January 2025. He previously worked as a journalist at KTSF, a Bay Area Chinese-language television station, and helps San Francisco residents navigate state agencies and access services.
Mo’s immigration case remains ongoing, according to Stefani’s office, and he continues to face legal expenses.
