Man from Cameroon denied asylum because he had been convicted four times of driving under the influence of alcohol here in the United States

                           FROM THE DESK OF EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR SHARIFA KALOKOLA

                                                    June 21, 2026

Man from Cameroon denied asylum because he had been convicted four times of driving under the influence of alcohol here in the United States

Matter of P-A-C-, 29 I&N Dec. 708 (BIA 2026)

Mr. P-A-C- suffered persecution and trauma in Cameroon. He was “eligible” for asylum, but it was denied due to “discretion” of the Immigration Judge.

He had lived here in the U.S. for over 20 years; he owned a business; he attended church and paid all taxes. His wife and sister testified for him in court. However, he had four convictions for driving while under the influence of alcohol (“DUI”) between 2004 and 2011. Also, he drove without a license, and while it was suspended.

He was granted withholding of removal. This means he will not be deported back to Cameroon. However, he can’t get a green card, nor can he apply to be a citizen.

Practical Considerations for Applicants for Asylum

            There is hostility against asylum applicants. So, you must work hard to “win” your case: i.e. show you suffered real harm in your country. But also: you must be a good “citizen” here in the U.S. be a volunteer at a church! Give blood! Help at your local school!

His case shows that your actions in the United States can affect the outcome of your case. Even if you have a strong asylum case, problems with the law can affect the judge’s decision.