LAWYER LISTS REASONS NOT TO DEPORT MAN

Akron Beacon Journal

An attorney filed briefs yesterday that outline reasons why a 22-year-old Wadsworth man, born in Brazil, should not be deported.

Joao Herbert, who was adopted when he was 8 years old, was convicted in 1998 for selling marijuana.

Herbert's attorney, Maura O'Neill Jaite, had until yesterday to file an application for relief, where she could list her reasons.

Jaite said she will try to prove that Brazil is noted for its torture policies, and that Herbert could be penalized for returning to that country. The Brazilian government has also said that it considers Herbert to be an American citizen and does not want to issue travel documents for his return.

Federal Immigration Judge Elizabeth A. Hacker has set a hearing date for June 15.