Lord Buffalo’s European Tour Cancelled: Drummer’s Detention Raises Complex Questions
Austin-based band Lord Buffalo has been forced to cancel their highly anticipated European tour after their drummer, Yamal Said, was detained at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport. The news has sent shockwaves through the music community, raising concerns about immigration enforcement and due process.
The band initially reported that Said, a Mexican citizen and lawful permanent resident of the United States (green card holder), was "forcibly removed from our flight to Europe by Customs and Border Patrol" on May 12th. This sparked immediate concern, especially given the current climate surrounding immigration enforcement.
Initially, the band stated they had no contact with Said and were working with an immigration lawyer to secure his release. "We are devastated to cancel this tour, but we are focusing all of our energy and resources on Yamal’s safety and freedom," Lord Buffalo wrote in a statement. Fellow touring partners Orsak:Oslo were slated to continue the tour without Lord Buffalo.
However, the story took a surprising turn. Later reports indicated that Said's detention might be related to an active criminal warrant, not directly to his immigration status. A CBP spokesperson confirmed that Said was removed from the flight due to the warrant and subsequently turned over to local law enforcement.
Online jail records indicate Said is being held in a Tarrant County jail for allegedly violating a protective order, a felony in Texas. This revelation adds a layer of complexity to the situation. While initial concerns focused on potential immigration overreach, the presence of a criminal warrant suggests a different legal process at play.
It's crucial to note that possessing a green card does not make one immune to criminal charges. As Austin immigration lawyer Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch pointed out, criminal convictions can have significant immigration consequences, potentially leading to deportation.
Lord Buffalo has since removed their initial Instagram post and requested privacy for Said and his family while the situation unfolds. "We still know very little about the situation, but we have been asked by our drummer’s family and his legal team to respect their privacy while this situation evolves," the band stated.
The case of Yamal Said highlights the intersection of immigration law and criminal justice. While the initial cancellation of Lord Buffalo’s tour was attributed to immigration concerns, the emergence of a criminal warrant complicates the narrative. It serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in legal proceedings and the importance of accurate information. The band now focuses on supporting their bandmate through this difficult time.
What are your thoughts on this developing situation? Share your perspectives and comments below.
