An immigration lawyer has claimed that US residency interviews are being delayed following a recent shooting in Washington, DC, causing panic among applicants. Charles Kuck, an immigration attorney, said on X that lawyers attending United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) interviews this week were told that decisions on cases had been paused. He wrote that final rulings were being put on hold 'because of the shooting on Saturday night.'
Background of the Incident
The claim follows a firearms incident last week during an event linked to the White House Correspondents' Association dinner at the Washington Hilton hotel. A gunman attempted to breach security and opened fire near a checkpoint, prompting an exchange of gunfire with a Secret Service agent. The agent was struck but survived due to a bulletproof vest. The suspect was arrested at the scene. Authorities confirmed that US President Donald Trump, first lady Melania Trump, and vice president JD Vance were safely evacuated and unharmed.
Suspect Details
Law enforcement later identified the suspect as Cole Tomas Allen, a 31-year-old teacher from Torrance, California. He had traveled to Washington in advance and was carrying multiple weapons, including shotguns and knives. Federal charges, including attempted assassination and firearms offenses, have been filed. Allen had sent a 1,000-word manifesto to his family before carrying out the offense. His brother saw the document and alerted the police.
Lawyer's Criticism
Kuck criticized the reported delays, describing the situation as 'the farce that has become of USCIS' and accusing authorities of using 'any excuse to deprive folks of the benefits they paid for.' He also criticized USCIS director Joseph B. Edlow in his rant, adding, 'Classic Nativist, Know-Nothing stupidity.'
USCIS Response
The US immigration agency has not publicly confirmed any suspension of interview decisions. Kuck's remarks come amid concerns from applicants already going through a lengthy residency process, where applications are often delayed for months and sometimes even years. Kuck is the founder and managing partner of an immigration law firm and has extensive experience handling visa and citizenship matters. He represented asylum seekers in hundreds of immigration court cases.
