Utah musicians rally around violinist detained by ICE after decades in the U.S.

After a violinist who has played with high-profile orchestras was detained by ICE, members of Utah’s music community are rallying in support of his release.

After a violinist who has played with high-profile orchestras was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement last week, members of Utah’s music community are rallying in support of his release.

Donggin Shin, 37, who came to the U.S. from South Korea with his father when he was a child, was abruptly arrested at a hotel parking lot while he was on a work trip in Colorado, his attorney Adam Crayk told NBC News. He was placed in ICE detention on Aug. 18. With a hearing slated for early September, his colleagues from the Salt Lake City area are hoping to send a message to the administration and beyond that Shin, who goes by the name John, is a valued part of the community.

“John has been in this country since he was 10 years old and he was brought here by his parents. He didn’t get a choice in the matter,” violinist and conductor Gabriel Gordon said. “He is not somebody that is taking from the community, but is giving.”

A senior Department of Homeland Security official said in response to NBC News’ questions about Shin, “Our message is clear: criminal illegal aliens are not welcome in the United States.”

Violinist John Shin with his family.via GoFundMeShin, who works a day job in telecommunications but has played with the prestigious Utah Symphony and Ballet West, is currently being held at the Denver Contract Detention Facility in Aurora, Colorado, according to an ICE database — more than 500 miles away from his home.