Detroit, Michigan, December 31, 2025
Sumith Gunasekera, an associate professor at Ferris State University, was arrested by ICE and subsequently terminated due to concerns over his immigration status and prior convictions. The arrest has raised alarms within the university community regarding safety and immigration policies, prompting discussions about the hiring procedures in academia. This incident is the latest in a series of controversies at the university, further igniting debates about public safety and individual rights.
Detroit, Michigan
Ferris State University Terminates Professor Following ICE Arrest
Sumith Gunasekera, an associate professor of marketing at Ferris State University, was arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Detroit on November 12. His arrest has sparked a significant response from the university community, highlighting both concerns over safety in educational environments and the complexities surrounding immigration issues.
With a history that includes being labeled an undocumented immigrant from Sri Lanka and a sex offender, Gunasekera has faced legal challenges since entering the U.S. in 1998 on a student visa. His previous convictions, which include sexual interference with a minor in Canada, have drawn attention and ultimately led to his recent termination from Ferris State University after an internal investigation was conducted.
Following his arrest, Gunasekera was placed on administrative leave as the university commenced its inquiry into whether he provided false information during the hiring process. The findings of this hearing have not been publicly disclosed, and Gunasekera remains in ICE custody pending immigration proceedings.
Previous Convictions and Legal History
Gunasekera entered the U.S. in 1998 and, shortly thereafter, was convicted in Ontario, Canada, for sexual interference with a minor and threats to cause bodily harm. His legal troubles continued with an arrest in Las Vegas in 2003 for open and gross lewdness and a disorderly conduct conviction in 2004. These infractions came to light in 2012 when he applied for a change of status with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
Community Response
The impact of Gunasekera’s arrest is being felt strongly within the Ferris State University community. Students and faculty have expressed shock and concern, emphasizing the need for a safe and reliable educational environment. The broader implications of employing individuals with such serious legal backgrounds have ignited discussions about the screening processes in academia and the responsibilities of institutions to maintain their communities’ safety.
University’s Controversial Context
This incident is not the first controversy involving Ferris State University faculty. In January 2022, Professor Barry Mehler faced suspension due to offensive conduct in a video intended for students. That case eventually led to a legal dispute and his retirement. These episodes have raised questions about oversight and institutional governance within the university, prompting calls for enhanced scrutiny and reforms.
Broader Implications for Immigration Policy
Gunasekera’s situation highlights the contentious debate over immigration policy and the treatment of undocumented individuals in the U.S. As his case progresses through immigration proceedings, it raises pertinent questions regarding the balance between individual rights and public safety, challenging communities to consider how best to navigate these complex issues.
Conclusion
The termination of Sumith Gunasekera from Ferris State University brings to the forefront significant issues related to safety, accountability, and immigration within educational contexts. Community concerns underline the importance of fostering secure and supportive environments for all students and faculty. As Detroit and the state of Michigan continue to grapple with such matters, local leaders and policymakers are encouraged to reflect on the ways to uphold both individual freedoms and public safety in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What were the charges against Sumith Gunasekera?
Gunasekera was arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents on November 12 in Detroit. ICE officials reported that Gunasekera is an undocumented immigrant from Sri Lanka and a convicted sex offender. Following his arrest, Ferris State University placed him on administrative leave while conducting an internal investigation. The university has since terminated his employment. A university hearing was held to determine if the professor gave false information during the hiring process. The university has not provided further details on the outcome of the hearing. Gunasekera remains in ICE custody pending immigration proceedings. The university has declined to comment further on the matter, citing it as a personnel issue.
What were Gunasekera’s previous convictions?
Gunasekera first entered the United States in 1998 on a student visa. In 1998, he was convicted in Ontario, Canada, of sexual interference with a minor and uttering threats to cause death or bodily harm, resulting in a one-month jail sentence and one year of probation. In 2003, he was arrested in Las Vegas for open and gross lewdness, and in 2004, he was convicted of disorderly conduct and fined. These convictions were discovered in 2012 when Gunasekera applied for a change of status with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
How has the Ferris State University community reacted?
The arrest has raised concerns within the Ferris State University community. Students and faculty have expressed shock and dismay over the situation, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a safe and trustworthy educational environment.
Has Ferris State University faced similar controversies in the past?
This incident follows a series of controversies involving Ferris State University faculty members. In January 2022, Professor Barry Mehler was suspended for making a profanity-laced video to welcome students, which led to a legal dispute and his eventual retirement.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Individual Involved | Sumith Gunasekera, Associate Professor of Marketing at Ferris State University |
| Location of Arrest | Detroit, Michigan |
| Agency Involved | U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) |
| Previous Convictions | Sexual interference with a minor and uttering threats in Ontario, Canada (1998); open and gross lewdness in Las Vegas, Nevada (2003); disorderly conduct (2004) |
| University’s Response | Placed on administrative leave; terminated employment after internal investigation |
| Current Status | Gunasekera remains in ICE custody pending immigration proceedings |
| Community Reaction | Concerns raised within Ferris State University community; emphasis on maintaining a safe educational environment |
| Previous Controversies | Professor Barry Mehler’s suspension and retirement following a profanity-laced video in January 2022 |
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