In the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), a Korean national accused of kidnapping and assault has been ordered deported before his criminal trial concludes.
The Mariana Variety reported on October 26 that Judge Clarence Wagner of the federal immigration court ordered Heejeong Hwang, 43, removed from the U.S. territory by November 12. Hwang is charged with kidnapping and assaulting a local tour guide.
According to the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Department of Public Safety (DPS), officers arrested Hwang on September 26 at a 99 Cents Only Stores location on suspicion of illegal possession of a firearm and drugs. DPS said he had already been charged in a separate kidnapping and assault case.
Police stated that Hwang and two alleged accomplices were arrested on August 25 for the kidnapping. He was released after posting a $25,000 bond.
DPS later executed a search warrant at Hwang’s residence, where investigators found illegal firearms, ammunition, and drugs. Authorities filed additional charges as a result.
During the immigration proceeding, Hwang’s attorney requested a postponement until after the criminal case. Judge Wagner rejected the request, ruling that the deportation order would remain in effect regardless of the criminal trial outcome.
The Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) under the U.S. Department of Justice said Hwang entered the territory on a B-2 tourist visa and overstayed. Local reporting indicates he operated a construction business named CJ Innovation.
BY HYOUNGJAE KIM [kim.ian@koreadaily.com]
