After a deportation battle that spanned nearly a quarter of a century, Ibrahim Parlak is now a free man. Tuesday a judge granted Parlak permission to stay in the United States, after fleeing Turkey back in the 1990s.

Parlak has lived in Michigan since his arrival in the U.S. nearly three decades ago. He settled into the area, opened up his own restaurant and became an active community member.... all the while fighting for his life.

Parlak has faced a tough deportation battle since his arrival in the US after fleeing Turkey. He described the decision as "life or death" since his return to Turkey could have been met with instant imprisonment or torture. But now, Parlak is a free man.

"It's a great feeling that the system you believe in, you are not disappointed," said Parlak. "Even though we had ups and downs through this period, we keep our faith and we keep belief and hope. We made it to this point and I'm glad we did."

Parlak said his battle isn't over just yet, but as he moves forward he has more standing now that he's been granted permission to stay. However, he now has hopes and dreams of the future ahead of him. "To live in a free country, live in America in an American way," said Parlak. "That's the dream. Focus on the positive, keep the hope alive. Believe in the system. And of course the great support I have support from good of America."