US Moves to Revoke Citizenship of Professor Convicted in Killing

October 2, 2026 - 05:17

Federal immigration authorities have initiated proceedings to strip citizenship from a former California psychology professor who was convicted of killing a man she claimed had raped her. The case drew international attention and sparked outrage among advocates for sexual assault survivors.

Norma Esparza, who spent years behind bars before her release eight years ago, now faces the possibility of losing her American citizenship. Immigration officials have targeted her case as part of a broader push to denaturalize individuals with criminal convictions, even those whose crimes were tied to claims of sexual violence.

The move has reignited debate over how the justice system treats women who fight back against attackers. Supporters argue that Esparza had already paid her debt to society and that revoking her citizenship amounts to double punishment. Critics of the immigration action say it sends a chilling message to victims of sexual assault, particularly those who are immigrants.

Esparza's legal team is expected to challenge the denaturalization effort. The outcome could set a precedent for similar cases involving survivors of sexual violence who have criminal records. Advocacy groups have pledged to monitor the proceedings closely, calling the government's action a troubling escalation in immigration enforcement.