A California Democratic state lawmaker’s aide was arrested by federal immigration authorities in Las Vegas. The individual, Ho-Yin Mo, previously worked as a news anchor at a Chinese-language station in San Francisco before joining Assemblywoman Catherine Stefani’s office. Mo was detained at Harry Reid International Airport.
The Department of Homeland Security informed Fox News Digital that Mo entered the U.S. lawfully on January 13, 2020, but failed to depart by May 15, 2020, overstaying his temporary visit. Notably, having work authorization or a pending application does not grant legal status in the U.S.
‘No one is above the law, not even the California legislature and its staff,’ wrote Bill Essayli, First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California, on X.
Mo held the position of a field representative for Stefani, who represents San Francisco and San Mateo County. Stefani previously served on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors until 2024. Mo joined her office in January 2025.
Catherine Stefani released a statement advocating for Mo’s release, describing him as a dedicated public servant and legal employee of the California State Legislature. She emphasized his significant role in engaging Chinese-American constituents due to his past as a TV reporter.
Prior to his role in Stefani’s office, Mo was an outreach organizer for former San Francisco Mayor London Breed’s 2024 reelection campaign, focusing on Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. His hiring was strategic due to his familiar presence through KTSF and his professional qualifications, as noted by Breed’s spokesperson Joe Arellano.
Mo remains in ICE custody pending removal proceedings. The Department of Homeland Security reiterated their policy change under President Trump, aiming to prevent illegal aliens from traveling within the country and promoting self-deportation.
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