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Kenek and Vilma B.T.: Boy with severe autism self-harms during 80+ days in ICE detention

Kenek, a 9-year-old with severe autism, was held over 80 days at a Texas detention center without his therapy, suffering meltdowns and self-harm. He and his mother were released with an ankle monitor after a lawyer intervened.

Mar 16, 2026Dilley, TXCountry of origin: Honduras

Kenek and Vilma B.T.: Boy with severe autism self-harms during 80+ days in ICE detention
Photo via NBC News

Vilma Bautista Torres and her 9-year-old son Kenek, who has Level 3 autism, were detained at the Dilley Immigration Processing Center for more than 80 days despite a federal settlement limiting child detention to 20 days. During detention, Kenek lost access to specialized therapy and schooling, experienced frequent meltdowns, self-harm episodes, and became increasingly disoriented and afraid. After a pro bono law clinic filed a parole request documenting his autism diagnosis and self-harm, ICE released the family with an ankle monitor.

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