The letter of the law is not black and white. Think critically - why did they turn a relatively blind eye to this issue in all past administrations? Immigrants of any kind are a net benefit to the wealthy and powerful. No billionaire obeys the law to the letter either. It would be nice if we enforced the written law with this level of zeal upon the rich. Pay taxes in "creative" ways? Hire an illegal? Straight to jail, no bail, maximum fine.

The same Irish man left Ireland because he was facing drug charges. I guess now we know why he overstayed 20 years, he fled Irish police.

So is smoking weed according the US federal government. Whether there is an actual harm being caused that should result in detainment is another matter. I'd argue ripping people away from their lives is a greater harm (via deportation or imprisonment).

That's for the courts to decide, and in this case his Habeas Corpus petition was denied and he has a final order of removal signed by an immigration court judge, who is not a part of the administration.

His I-485 is ineligible, period. He entered under the VWP, which makes you ineligible for any adjustment of status. His case would have been denied, undoubtedly.