Attorney Claims CBP Targeted Him for Representing Pro-Palestinian Protester

Attorney's Account of Airport Detention

• ⚖️ Amir Makled, a civil rights attorney from Michigan, alleges he was targeted by U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) agents at Detroit Metro Airport.
• ✈️ He claims the detention occurred upon his return from an international vacation and lasted approximately 90 minutes.
• 📱 During the detention, Makled states he was pressured to turn over his cell phone.

Allegations of Targeted Inspection

• 🎯 Makled asserts the stop was not routine, citing the use of the acronym TTRT (Tactical Terrorism Response Team) by an officer.
• 🗣️ He claims the officer knew his travel history, profession, and details about recent high-profile cases he is litigating.
• ✊ Specifically, Makled mentioned representing a student charged with a felony for protesting on campus, suggesting this was a politically motivated intimidation tactic.

Confrontation Over Cell Phone Access

• 🔒 CBP agents demanded access to Makled's cell phone, which he refused due to attorney-client privilege concerns.
• 📄 Makled was presented with a legal pad and asked to identify privileged information, which he deemed a "feudal exercise" given the volume of data.
• 🤝 Ultimately, Makled agreed to allow agents to view his contact list after signing a document, in order to retrieve his phone.

CBP's Response

• 🚫 The assistant commissioner for CBP called Makled's accusations "blatantly false and sensationalized."
• 🔁 CBP stated the referral to secondary inspection was a "routine, lawful process" applicable to any traveler.
• ⚠️ The agency denied any political motivation or targeting of Makled's profession, asserting officers follow the law.

Concerns for Civil Liberties

• 📉 Makled believes this incident sets a dangerous precedent and will create a chilling effect on free speech, association, and advocacy.
• 🏛️ He emphasized the importance of protecting First Amendment rights and discouraging fear of travel, organizing, or dissent.
• 🧍 Makled noted he was detained alone, while his family was allowed to proceed.