Pocono News Section

Selinsgrove Couple Granted 60 Day Reprieve

Selinsgrove Couple Granted 60 Day Reprieve - Monday, November 26, 2007 at 6:32PM EST

Reported by: Eric Deabill
Monday, Nov 26, 2007 @06:32pm EST

PHILADELPHIA, PHILADELPHIA COUNTY - A well-known couple from Selinsgrove is breathing a temporary sigh of relief tonight. After an immigration hearing, Dr. Pedro Servano and his wife were granted a 60-day reprieve to stay in the United States.

The couple faces deportation after federal officials say they lied on their VISA applications in the 1970s. The couple says it was all a big mistake.

After the decision was announced, the couple said they were relieved, but still apprehensive.

"It's a big relief for my family, that they're giving us time, 60 days, so we'll do our best I hope," Salvacion Servano said.

WYOU News has learned exclusively that Pennsylvania Senator Arlen Specter has called immigration officials, requesting all background documents in the case. That means he is most likely considering a private bill that would allow the couple to say in the United States permanently. Thousands of other people have come forward on the couple's behalf.

"I'm really surprised me and I'm speechless most of the time. I wouldn't expect this type of support from across the country," Dr. Servano said.

Caught in the middle of the deportation debate is the couple's four children. They have waited weeks for Monday's decision.

"I just wanted to know what the outcome was going to be. At least they're giving us some time to get everything in order," Steven Servano said.

All of the children say, if the worst comes two months from now, and their parents are deported, they will also go to the Phillippines.

"We were always close, but this has definately brought us to be more close," Shappine Servano said.

Lawyers say the repreive the Servano's were granted on Monday was rare and they feel optimistic about the couple's chances.

"It is an extraordinary case. It's not your normal deportation case. There are tremendous, tremendous equities in this case that have created a stir around the country," attorney Gregg Cotler said.

There is also an set-up to support the family.