Decision date: 2023-06-23

Reversing BIA and finding that record compelled conclusion that family ties were one central reason for Petitioner’s persecution where gang members threatened to kill him and other family members unless the family paid the gang money, and the gang attacked the Petitioner and killed one of his brothers. Denied CAT claim because the BIA provided specific reasons for finding the Petitioner’s testimony insufficient to meet his burden of proof, and appropriately evaluated the evidence under the futility exception.

Publication Status: Published

Case judge: Heytens, Keenan, Thacker

Decision: A.G. v. Garland, 72 F.4th 22 (4th Cir. 2023)