SF Lawmaker Demands Release Of Former News Anchor Turned Staffer Detained By ICE

SAN FRANCISCO, CA — A San Francisco lawmaker is calling for the release of her staffer who was detained by immigration agents earlier this month.

Asm. Catherine Stefani (D-San Francisco) said in a statement on social media Tuesday afternoon that her field representative, Ho Yin Mo, was detained by ICE on Thursday, Sept. 17, and is being held in a Nevada detention center.

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"My message today is simple: I am respectfully calling for Ho Yin Mo's release as soon as possible," Stefani said. "Ho Yin is a selfless public servant and a valued, legal employee of the California State Legislature serving our San Francisco and Bay Area communities."

A DHS spokesperson told KTXL in Sacramento that Mo entered the United States from Hong Kong lawfully via a temporary visa in 2020 but "illegally overstayed his welcome."

The agency added that Mo's work authorization did not confer legal status in the country, according to KTXL.

Stefani, meanwhile, emphasized that Mo has been crucial in helping her serve their Bay Area communities, especially with Chinese-American constituents, who watched him when he was a reporter.

Mo, 28, became a prime-time anchor for Chinese-language TV station KTSF after graduating from the University of California, Berkeley, according to Mission Local.

"His work goes far beyond presence," Stefani said. "Ho Yin helps people access affordable health care coverage, child care, and food support."

"Our whole community eagerly awaits Ho Yin's return to his home and his job where he is loved and adored."